Table of Contents

Editorial Note 2

Contact Addresses 3

Board of Governors 2013 4

Teaching Staff 2013 5

Administrative Staff 2013 7

Presidents FCOBA 8

Presidents LHSOGA 10

FCFPA Officers 2013 12

Chairperson’s Letter 13

Prizegiving Speeches 14

Leavers’ Destinations 30

Graduations 33

Staff Retirements 35

Notes & News 39

Obituaries 41

Announcements 51

President’s Profile 52

Reports On The Year’s Events 53

Your Contributions 85

From The Archive 91

Dates For Your Diary 95

Standing Order Mandate 97

Editorial Note

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Welcome to the 2014 edition of the Foyle College Former Pupils’ Magazine.

2013 was an exciting year for our city and our school with the events of the City of Culture creating a vibrant atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. One highlight of the year for me, was having the opportunity to attend the talk given by the Dalai Lama in the Venue in April. This event was also notable for the school as one of our past pupils, former Head Boy, OisinDuddy, was presented with an award from Richard Moore and the Dalai Lama. A photograph of this presentation can be found in the Notes and News section.

The past year also saw the publication of the book A View the Foyle Commandingwhich was launched in early March. The book launch was held in Lawrence Hill and was well attended by former pupils, staff and three headmasters of the school. The photos of the launch event can be found in the section ‘Reports on the Year’s Events’.

The Former Pupils’ Association Facebook page continues to grow at a steady rate with over 800 former pupils now linked to the site. If you are on Facebook and have yet to find our page, it can be found by searching for ‘Foyle College FPA’. The exact address is reproduced in the contacts list below.

As many of you will already know, we are trying to encourage as many former pupils as possible to submit their details to our database. This can be done very simply by sending a brief email with your name and years of attendance to [email protected]. I would encourage everyone to do this as it means they will be kept up to date with events and news about the school and the Association.

I hope you enjoy this year’s edition of the Former Pupils’ Magazine.

Laura Taylor Editor Foyle College Former Pupils’ Magazine

Useful Contact Addresses

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Foyle College

Duncreggan Road

Londonderry

BT48 0AW

Tel. (028)71269321

School Website – www.foylenet.org.uk

Laura Taylor

5 Clooney Park West

Limavady Road

Londonderry

BT47 6LA

Tel. (028) 71344058

For submitting contact information – [email protected]

For magazine submissions – [email protected]

-www.facebook.com/foylecollegefpa

Board of Governors 2013

Governor’s Name Electing Body

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Mr R Young The Honourable The Irish Society

Mr B Dougherty, Mrs D Fleming, Department of Education Mr E Gee, Mr G Killeen, Representatives Mr B Long, Dr R Manning, Ms C McGoldrick, Mrs M McLaughlin, Mrs J Young

Mr J A Black, Mrs C Gilliland, Foundation Nominated Mr I McCarter, Mr J McFarland Representatives

Rev Dr R Craig Presbytery of Derry and Strabane Representative

Rev M R K Ferry Church of Ireland Diocesan Representative

Professor D Heenan University of Ulster Representative

Mr J S M Huey, Mr C Jeffrey Old Boys' Representatives

Mrs J Y Coskery, Mrs I McNally Old Girls' Representatives

Mrs H Eakin, Mr W M Lynn, Mrs S O'Connell Staff Representatives

Mrs K Jackson, Mr M Love, Mr C Tennis Parents’ Representatives

Mr P W J Allen Principal

Mr N Stewart Clerk to Governors

Teaching Staff 2013

Headmaster Mr P W J Allen

Vice Principals Mr P G Gault Mr G S Mercer

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Mr R W H Menown

Art & Design Mr K F Ward (Head of Department) Mrs S C Thomas Miss M McAleer

Biology Mrs I A Hannaway (Head of Department) Mrs L J Hand (Head of Junior Science) Mr P T Farmer

Business Studies Mrs H Eakin (Head of Department) Mrs B McGowan

Careers Mr P T Farmer (Head of Department) Mrs H Eakin Ms L D McAuley

Chemistry Mr K S Given (Head of Department) Mrs J Millen Miss C McAleer

Design & Technology Mr A C Moorcroft (Head of Department) Mr A J Manning Mrs K McShane

English Mrs A B Mercer (Head of Department) Mr P G Gault Mrs E O Steele Mr D R Keown Mrs K O Knox Mr B J Duffy

Geography Mrs S J E Guthrie (Head of Department) Mr R Menown Ms K Eakin Ms S Bollard Mr D Gallagher Mrs L Wylie

Geology Miss N S Sloane

History Mrs M Dougherty (Head of Department) Mrs C O Robinson Mr S R Young

Home Economics Mrs F Feeney (Head of Department)

ICT Mrs S McLaughlin (Head of Department) Mrs K McShane Mr A J Manning

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Mrs M M Leonard

Mathematics Mr T S Nutt (Head of Department) Mr G S Mercer Mrs B B McGowan Mrs B A Gillen Mrs C R Lynn Mrs L Buchanan Miss K H Sayers

Music Mrs B O’Somachain (Head of Department) Miss E Barr

Modern Languages Mrs P A I Coughlin Mrs H Kane-Craig Ms L D McAuley Mrs C Lynch Mrs C A Johnston Miss A Quigley

Physics Mrs S M O’Connell (Head of Department) Mr D B Phillips Miss L M Carlin

Physical Education Ms K Eakin (Head of Department – Girls) Mr D A Barnett (Head of Department –Boys) Ms S Bollard Mr A J Ferguson Mrs L Wylie

Religious Studies Mrs J M Allen (Head of Department) Mrs S Moore

SENCo Mrs B B McGowan

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF 2013

School Bursar Mr Neil Stewart B.Sc. Principal’s Personal Assistant Mrs J Galbraith School Secretaries Mrs J Cole (Springtown) Mrs W Nutt (Duncreggan)

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Clerical Office Mrs J Gallagher Library Mr P Walker Mr P Wright Sixth Form Study Supervisor Miss C Clifford Junior School Study Supervisor Mrs M Thompson Classroom Assistants Miss P Boyle Mrs C McShane Mrs P Feathers Mrs K Doherty Miss B Harkin Miss J Leitch Mrs P McCandless Mrs D Rankin Mrs R Wilson Reprographics/Premises Officer Mr G Balmer (Duncreggan) Network Manager Mr S Hamilton Technicians Mr C Jones Mrs C Hume Mrs M Mullan Mrs J Woods Estates Manager Mr C Austin Grounds Staff Mrs N Cole Duncreggan Canteen Mrs V Bratton Mrs A Burton (Head Cook) Mrs S Coyle Ms C McAuley Ms B McCallion Mrs L Murray (Assistant Cook) Mrs C Page Mrs H Wright Springtown Canteen Mrs J Doherty (Assistant Cook) Mrs M Duddy Ms V Hockley (Head Cook) Mrs A Wilson Mr S Powell Duncreggan Cleaners Mrs M Bignol, Ms S Donnell, Mr J Ferguson, Mr J Geslak, Mr G McNulty, Mr R Nesbitt, Mrs H Wright Springtown Cleaners Mrs V Bratton, Mrs M Cooke, Mrs V Lynch Mrs M Lynn, Mrs P McColgan, Mrs D Smith

Past Presidents of FoyleCollege Old Boys’ Association

1928 - 29 The Right Hon. Sir John Ross, Bart. 1929 - 30 Alfred Moore Munn, BA 1930 - 31 His HonourJudge John Fitzpatrick Cooke, KC, DL 1931 - 32 Sir Samuel Thompson Irwin, CBE, BA, MB, MCh, FRCS, DLMP 1932 - 33 Major James Sproule Myles, MC, TD 1933 - 34 Professor Charles Gibson Lowry, MD, FRCS, FRCOG

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1934 - 35 John Gallagher Michaels 1935 - 36 The Very Rev. James Gilbert Paton MC, MA, DD 1936 - 37 Sir James McElmunn Wilton, MC 1937 - 38 Thomas Carnwath, DSO, BA, MB, DSc, DPH 1938 - 39 Isaac J. Trew Colquhoun, BA 1939 - 40 The Right Hon. Mr. Justice William Lowry 1940 - 41 John BlakeneyGillies, LDS 1941 - 42 Thomas Taggart, LLD 1942 - 43 His Honour Judge Marcus Dill Begley, QC 1943 - 44 The Very Reverend William Corkey, MA, DD 1944 - 45 Sir William Athlestane Meredith Good, KBE 1945 - 46 Robert Foster Dill, MA 1946 - 47 Professor Frances James Brown, MS, DSc, FRCS, (Ed), FRCOG 1947 - 48 Sir John Herbert McCutcheon Craig, KCVO, CB, LLD 1948 - 49 Rupert William Jeffares 1949 - 50 Samuel Milligan 1950 - 51 Samuel Russell Foster, MC Croix de Guerre, MB 1951 - 52 John Foster Caldwell, CB, QC, LLM, JP 1952 - 53 The Very Rev. Thomas McCurdy Barker, MA, DD 1953 - 54 The Right Hon. Sir David Callender Campbell, PC, KBE, CMG, MP 1954 - 55 William Cecil Glover, MBE 1955 - 56 Henry Cooke Porter Cresswell 1956 - 57 Sir Robert Gransden, CBE 1957 - 58 Charles Wilson, BA 1958 - 59 Samuel Maxwell Alexander Lowry 1959 - 60 John Thomas Irwin, AMIEE 1960 - 61 William Staveley Ferguson, BA 1961 - 62 Major James Alexander Glen, CBE, ERD, MA 1962 - 63 Joseph Boyd Irwin, CSI, CIE, DSO, MC, BA 1963 - 64 Joseph Charles Eaton, DL, JP 1964 - 65 Prof. Charles HornerGreer McAfee, CBE,DSc, MB, FRCS, FRCIS and FRCOG 1965 - 66 Samuel Douglas Irons 1966 - 67 The Right Hon. Sir Herbert McVeigh, Lord Justice of Appeal 1967 - 68 The Very Rev. Austin A. Fulton, MA, PhD, DD 1968 - 69 Senator John C. Drennan, CBE, HML, JP 1969 - 70 The Very Rev. Samuel James Park, MA, DD 1970 - 71 Armour Hamilton Matthews, LDS, RCS 1971 - 72 Colonel Oswald W. Gilmour, MA MAI, CEng, FICE 1972 - 73 The Right Hon. Sir Robert Porter, QC, MP 1973 - 74 The Very Rev. William Alexander Albert Park, MA, DD 1974 - 75 David Alan Eccles Roberts, MA 1975 - 76 John Alexander Crockett 1976 - 77 James Stewart Connolly, MA, LLB 1977 - 78 Professor Emeritus ACP Campbell, MB, ChB, FRC Path, FRCPE 1978 - 79 Professor JC Goligher, MB, ChM, FRCSE, FRCS (Edin) 1979 - 80 J B Mullin BA, HDipEd 1980 - 81 Rev R K Greer, MA, BD 1981 - 82 RN Crawford, CBE, BCommSc, FCA, FRSA, FBIM 1982 - 83 Real Admiral W J McClune, CB, MSc, MIEE 1983 - 84 J Piggot, MB, BCh, FRCS 1984 - 85 A EBarbour, BSc, FBCO 1985 - 86 J Kincade, CBE, MA, BLitt, PhD 1986 - 87 D C G Craig, BA

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1987 - 88 S A Hunter, BSc, C Eng, FIEE 1988 - 89 H W Young, OBE, MA 1989 - 90 J C Lapsley, BSc, DLC, DASE 1990 - 91 T H Armstrong, BA, DipEd 1991 - 92 R J Magowan, BA, DASE, MSc 1992 - 93 Prof S G Carruthers, MD, FRCPC 1993 - 94 N J Henderson, BSc 1994 - 95 J H Y Fergusson 1995 - 96 A G Kennedy, BA 1996 - 97 Prof R J McClelland, MD, PhD, FRCPSYCH 1997 - 98 D R Craig, B Arch, ARIBA, DIP TP, MRTPI 1998 - 99 The Very Rev. D C Orr, MA 1999 - 00 EW Hamilton 2000 - 01 JE Bigger, MA, DASE 2001 - 02 HW Gillespie, BA, DASE 2002 - 03 AW Roulston, CA 2003 - 04 J Cowan, BA, Dip Ed, DASE 2004 - 05 I MPiggot 2005 - 06 JV Arthur, BSc (Est Man), FRICS, IRRV 2006 - 07 ES Marshall, BA, FRSA, MA, LGSM, ALCM 2007 - 08 RS Tosh, BSc, BD, PhD 2008 - 09 JAS Kelso, BS, MS, PhD 2009 –10 JAC McFarland, BSc, C Eng, FICE 2010 –11 JSM Huey, BA, Dip Ed 2011 –12 R C Montgomery, MB, DMH, DHMSA 2012 –13 R C Montgomery, MB, DMH, DHMSA 2013 - 14 W S F Young, MA

Londonderry High School Old Girls’ Association Founded 1935 Presidents LHS OGA

1935-45 Miss M F McIlroy 1946 Mrs H M Williams 1947 Mrs Killen M.A. 1948 Mrs E R Gordon 1949 Miss Osborne OBE JP 1950 Mrs H Robinson 1951 Mrs Doreen McConnell BA

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1952 Miss M K M Aiken BA BLLB 1953 Mrs John Watson MBE 1954 Mrs B H Lynn FRCS 1955 Mrs B Roe MBE 1956 Dr Elsie Johnston 1957 Mrs S Dowds 1958 Dr Violet Breakey 1959 Mrs N Young 1960 Mrs H J Clarke 1961 Mrs J C Eaton 1962 Miss Grace Armstrong 1963 Mrs Jean L’Amie MA 1964 Marie Loullier OBE MA 1965 Mrs Olive McLaughlin BA 1966 Mrs R R Hunter 1967 Mrs G R Joscelyne 1968 Mrs J G Colhoun 1969 Miss Alice Rowan 1970 Miss E A Park BSc 1971 Mrs Mary Britton 1972 Miss M R Colhoun 1973 Mrs K Gillis 1974 Miss A E Stirling MA 1975 Miss M W Cunningham MA 1976 Miss M Anderson 1977 Mrs E W M Marr 1978 Mrs T R Berry 1979 Mrs M B Seaward 1980 Mrs M B Seaward 1981 Mrs R J Aiken 1982 Mrs J Moore 1983 Mrs J McCandless 1984 Mrs E Clay 1985 Mrs E Finlay 1986 Mrs M Welch 1987 Mrs J W Taggart 1988 Mrs D Stuart 1989 Mrs Gladys Black 1990 Mrs K Stewart 1991 Mrs E Whiteside 1992 Mrs Lorna Knox 1993 Mrs W Burns 1994 Miss Anne Wilson 1995 Mrs M Phillips 1996 Miss G Simpson 1997 Mrs R Ramsey 1998 Mrs B Hamilton 1999 Mrs J Y Coskery 2000 Mrs Helen Hilson 2001 Mrs C Corrigan 2002 Mrs J Milliken 2003 Mrs Thelma Arthur 2004 Mrs N Foss 2005 Mrs Molly Kennedy 2006 Mrs Elma McDevitt 2007 Mrs Isabel McNally, CBE 2008 Mrs Molly Sutton

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2009 Mrs Phyllis Logan 2010 Mrs Ruth Hamilton 2011 Mrs Pamela Jackson 2012 Dr Kanchan McAllister (née Chada) 2013 Mrs Lily Swinson 2014 Mrs Phenella Black

Foyle College Former Pupils’ Association

OFFICERS 2013/14

Joint Presidents Mrs E Swinson and Mr W Young

Chairperson Mrs I McNally

Vice Chairperson Mr W Lynn

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Hon Secretaries Miss L Taylor and Mr M Kilgore

Hon Treasurer Mr N Stewart

Members of the Executive Committee

Mrs J Tennis

Mrs J McClintock

Mrs F Rankin

Mrs B Fowler

Mr C Jeffery

Mr B Long

Mr G Killeen

Mr W Lynn

Mr A Manning

Hon Auditors Mr R Young and Mr B Peoples mailto:[email protected]

Anyone wishing to contact the committee should send the query to [email protected]

Chairperson’s Letter

This is the second year of the Foyle Former Pupils' Association and I am sure you have noticed very little has changed.

Lunches,dinners, social gatherings continue to be planned but all events are inclusively male and female.

With contact names beside each event, you can come along or organise your own group to attend. (Wonderful opportunity for year groups to meet).

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[email protected] This year we would encourage all the Lady Golfers to sign up for the Golfing Days. Please contact Jack McFarland before the events.

Our big social gathering this year on the 20 June will be in Duncreggan. As this is nearly midsummer and the city is so vibrant, it is hoped that groups from London, or even year groups, could plan a weekend and see the old schools.

Tours of the school are still being organised for those wanting a day visit and it would also give time to visit old haunts and stop for lunch.

Our biggest problem is in communication and building our database. If you are not getting our information, you have not given us your details. Please do not assume the old associations had your details. We need you to make contact-a simple e mail from you will do the trick.

Information is put on Facebook but we still need your contact details.

If you wish to plan events or need assistance with planning the FPA is available to help.

I look forward to seeing many of you throughout the year.

Isabel McNally CBE

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Prizegiving Speeches

Headmaster’s Prizegiving Speech

Chairman, Mr Mayor, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

It is a pleasure to welcome so many of you here this evening to join us for our annual prize giving. May I also join with the chairman in welcoming our guest this evening Mr John McClean who left Foyle and Londonderry College in June 2004. In considering whom to invite to be our guest speaker I hope each year to bring back former pupils of Foyle to share with us their achievements since leaving the school. It is my hope that our current pupils will therefore have a greater awareness of the possibilities that lie before them if they take

14 full advantage of the opportunities that their school affords them. In carrying out a little research in preparation for this evening one of John’s former teachers described him as ‘one of those rare scientists who also have some culture’. Now I’m not sure what the scientists with us this evening will think of that description but it is clear that John is a scientist of some note having achieved A grades in Physics, Chemistry and Maths. He was awarded the Institute of Physics medal for the top result in Northern Ireland and was selected to represent Ireland in the 36th International Chemistry Olympiad where he was awarded a medal for his performance in the competition. John went on from Foyle to achieve a 1st Class Honours degree and a Masters degree in Physics from Oxford University. It is, however, also clear that John must have some culture using AS and A-Levels as they were originally intended by achieving an A grade in English Literature perfectly to complement his science subjects. John was also an active participant in the school shows taking the role of Professor ZoltanKarpathy in My Fair Lady in Year 12 whilst in Year 14 he took the role of Oliver ‘Daddy’ Warbucks in Annie. He is also an accomplished musician having achieved Grade 8 in both the violin and piano participating in tours with the WELB Youth Orchestra to the USA, Canada and Europe and somehow he also managed to find the time to complete his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. John was also Head Boy and the recipient of both the Lawrence Sword and the Lawrence Medal. I hope that I haven’t embarrassed John by recounting his achievements at Foyle but I think that he illustrates perfectly the opportunities that schools like ours have to offer to their pupils. Education can, and should, be so much more than simply the acquisition of knowledge. Rather it should be an enlightening experience which helps all pupils to recognise and develop their strengths in order to achieve their full potential whether that be academically, athletically or artistically or, all being well, some combination of the three. Hopefully my report this evening, along with those of this year’s Head Boy, Patrick Leeson, and Head Girl, Alexandra Graham, will illustrate the sort of opportunities that Foyle College affords to its pupils who are prepared to rise to the challenge. However, the core business of our school remains learning and teaching and so let us turn our attention to this year’s performances in the public examinations.

At GCSE the pass rate across all subjects was 94% with 40% of the grades achieved being either A* or A. Of particular note, and worthy of individual mention, are Ruth Allen who achieved 10A*s and Sarah Ferry who achieved 9A*s and an A. Jonathan Alexander, Alex Browne, Jade Gould, Adam Greer, Lucy Hamilton, Alice Hegarty, AineLaidler, Tory Lapsley, Robert Leeson, Kathryn Marshall, Andrew Martin, Vanessa Montgomery, Nicole Quinn, Lydia Rankin and Joel Rosborough all achieved at least 9 grades at A or A*. We mustn’t overlook the Year 11 pupils who undertook their GCSE Maths in one year achieving a 100% pass rate and with 84% achieving either an A* or A grade. In addition in Year 11, Cormac Ruiz-Byrne achieved an A Grade in AS Spanish.

For Year 13 pupils the AS pass rate was 97% across all subjects with 36% of the grades achieved at Grade A, 27% at Grade B and 20% at Grade C. Worthy of individual mention are Judith Allen, Amy Austin, James Cole, Becky Downey, Bethan Heath, Hilary Leeson, Patrick Leeson, Aoife McSorley and Joanne Struthers who have each achieved four A Grades whilst Alexandra Graham, Joanne Hawthorne, Chloe Henry, Reece McClintock, Lauren Moore, Adam Potts, Ethan Smith, Mark Wilson and Sophie Windebank achieved at least 3 A Grades. Bethan Heath has also been placed first in Northern Ireland in Geology. Through their diligence, and that of their teachers, these eighteen pupils have put themselves in the best possible position to achieve top grades in their full A-Levels allowing them to access to the best universities in the country.

It is wonderful to see so many of those who have just completed Year 14 joining us this evening for what will be their final school event. It is a tangible indicator of their connection with the school that so many have chosen to be here this evening and I am delighted to welcome them. This year group achieved an A-Level pass rate of 99%. 31% of these grades were achieved at A* or A which compares more than favourably with the UK average

15 of 26%. 30% of grades were at Grade B and 24% at Grade C; grades which have allowed 83% of the year group to access places at university. Worthy of individual mention are Mark Monaghan and Lauren McCracken who each achieved three A*s and an A, whilst Niamh Spence achieved four A*s and will be reading Medicine at Robinson College, Cambridge. Also worthy of mention are Graham Caldwell, Niamh Connolly, Laura Dougherty, Laura Harper, Alan Hogg, Alice Kennedy, Richard Magee, David Martin, Alison Maybin, Victoria McCloskey, EimilieMcSorley and John Neilly who each achieved at least three A-Levels at A or A*; that’s almost 15% of the whole year group leaving Foyle College with three top grades. However, the recognition of the individuals that I have named this evening is not intended to diminish the achievements of any of these young people. Foyle College is about fostering opportunities for young learners to excel and that is what each of these young people have done in their own way. For some it will have been a personal triumph to achieve the grades required to gain a university place. Many will have faced up to, and overcome, personal difficulties at some point in their seven years at Foyle. Most will have seized the opportunities that the school has offered them and leave us as enriched and enhanced contributors to society. I wish them all good luck as they begin the next phase of their lives and hope that they will keep in touch and let us know how they are getting on.

I hope you will agree with me that these are an excellent set of results and the pupils and their teachers are to be commended on their achievements. But it is not just through exam results that our teachers work with their pupils to achieve academic variety and success. Pupils have many opportunities to take what they have learned in the classroom and to apply their knowledge so developing the thinking skills and personal capabilities which are central to the Northern Ireland curriculum and which are so in demand and highly valued by today’s employers. Allow me to take a few moments to provide you with a number of examples from across the school.

STEM (that is science, technology, engineering and maths) continues to be a major focus across all education sectors in Northern Ireland and Foyle College is always keen to encourage budding scientists. During science focus week in November the ‘Learn Differently’ Company provided Year 8 pupils with a science show on the topic of ‘Forces’ which was both informative and fun. Lunchtime activities organised by the science staff included a demonstration of a rat dissection along with workshops on lenses and fun chemistry. Some pupils had the opportunity to visit DuPont to see the production of Lycra whilst others visited the Lough’s Agency where they had the opportunity to discuss careers in Marine Biology with former Foyle pupil Mr Arthur Niven. Also during the Autumn term Year 10 pupils attended the Seagate Science Conference at St Mary’s College where they had the opportunity to find out about STEM based careers and to participate in science based workshops including programming Lego robots, CPR First Aid training and forensic science. During the Spring term Hannah Hunter and Ellen Barr, who were both in 9D last year participated in 'Environmental Youth Speak'. This event was organised by Derry City Council and encouraged environmental awareness giving both girls the opportunity to research and debate environmental issues putting across their well researched arguments in speeches on 'The True Cost of Waste'. The Junior School scientists rounded out their year with trips to Ness woods in Year 8 and Castlerock in Year 9 where pupils had the opportunity to undertake cross-curricular project work with input from the English, Maths and Art departments. Such activities are not, however, limited to the Junior School. The Sentinus Engineering Research and Design Project is a scheme which was set up to encourage pupils to apply for engineering degrees. A team of Year 13 pupils, Aoife McSorley, Laura McElhinney, Ethan Smith and Christopher Love, worked to solve a real world engineering problem set for them by Mr Martin Devenney of E&I Engineering. This involved researching possible solutions and evaluating their benefits before proposing a final design to best answer the brief. The team had the opportunity to spend three days in the engineering workshop at University of Ulster,Jordanstown, before submitting a final report and making a

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PowerPoint presentation of their proposal to a panel of qualified engineers. The work was of such a calibre that the team were awarded with Gold Crest Awards.

It’s not only budding scientists that we are keen to encourage. As a school we also recognise the need to develop young entrepreneurs who will establish the businesses that will provide the employment of the future. Pupils are given the opportunity to engage with workshops offered to each year group by Young Enterprise from ‘Your School, Your Business’ at the beginning of Year 8 to help pupils with the transition from primary school to ‘Learn to Earn’ during Year 11. The latter workshop can prove particularly eye opening for some of those who may not be giving of their best efforts as it shows them the grades that are required in order to access the courses that are needed to give them the earnings necessary to fund the lifestyle that they aspire to.

But what of the arts?an area of the curriculum that has always featured strongly in Foyle’s armoury and yet which appears to have slipped completely out of the Department of Education’s priorities. I am delighted to report that Foyle College remains as committed to the promotion of the Arts as it always has. In Art and Design Richard Magee, of last years’ A-Level class, has recently won the Visual Arts competition sponsored by the City Hotel and his winning piece will be on display in the hotel for the next twelve months. Modern Languages is an area which I consider to be vital in giving our young people an edge in the increasingly competitive labour market and the linguists continue to work hard in promoting their subject areas with a range of activities outside the curriculum. Languages week takes place at the end of September using senior pupils to promote the importance of languages to those in the Junior School. The French Drama Club, La ComédieFoylaise, hosted a French storytelling workshop in May with the aim of promoting storytelling as a way of engaging pupils with languages with a dramatisation of Monsieur Rapide in French (that’s Mr Busy from the Mr Men series to the rest of us). This event was also attended by a number of pupils and staff from Lumen Christi. In the English Department a number of theatre activities provided enrichment of pupils’ understanding of the subject. Twenty-five actors plus two musicians from Years 9 to 14 performed A Midsummer Night’s Dream as part of the Shakespeare in Schools Festival whilst all of Year 10 were given the opportunity to watch the Icarus Theatre Collective’s performance of Romeo and Juliet at the Millennium Forum. You will hear more about the activities of the music department shortly but there were two particular highlights which stood out for me both of which took place during February. One was the Jazz Evening which this year took place in the Tower Hotel where our own jazz musicians were joined by those of Wallingford School, a fellow member of the Merchant Taylors’ family of schools. Whilst the musical performances by both schools were of the highest calibre and thoroughly enjoyed by the capacity audience, it was the way in which the pupils of Foyle College proudly showed off their city and talked about its history with our visitors as we toured the walls on the Saturday morning that has stuck with me. Education should provide opportunities for young people to learn about and to understand others and I am sure that the friendships that were formed and reinforced that weekend will, for some, last a lifetime. The other highlight was Stars in Their Eyes where, following a rigorous audition process, eight junior and ten senior pupils performed the songs of their favourite artists before a capacity audience of family and friends in Duncreggan. The talent on display that evening from the pupils, if not the staff, was both exceptional and highly entertaining but what I particularly enjoyed was that many of the performers would not normally appear in the limelight and yet when given an opportunity to shine they grasped it with both hands. Combining the talents of our thespians and musicians, plus all those grafting out of the limelight, I am already eagerly anticipating the school production of Little Shop of Horrors which will take place at the beginning of December. Another highlight of the year which I particularly enjoyed as part of my summer holiday reading was Soundtrack to Our Lives, a collection of short stories published by Guildhall press and part funded by the City of Culture. The book is a tangible testimony to the enthusiasm and talent of the youth of the city and provides a sneak preview into a future generation of poets, playwrights, novelists and

17 storytellers. I would like to congratulate Lydia Cullen, James Neilly, AineLaidler, Joanne Struthers and IngeSwiegers who, with the guidance of Mrs Mercer, are now able to say that they are published authors.

Following rigorous auditions thirteen pupils from Year 10 were chosen to represent the school in the Junior Magistrates competition. The team succeeded in winning the Northern Ireland competition in March and progressed to the national final which took place in Nottingham in June against sixteen schools from across the United Kingdom. This competition involved members of the team taking on the full range of roles to be found in a courtroom, preparing both defence and prosecution cases, to try against their opposing schools. We have high hopes that these young people will progress to represent the school in Bar Mock trials in the Senior School and perhaps will even consider a career at the Bar as a result of their experience.

This is just a taster of the variety of experiences which pupils at Foyle College have had the opportunity to enjoy over the past 12 months and I must apologise to those staff and pupils that I have not been able to include. To report on the total breadth and variety of the achievements and activities that have taken place in school during the past twelve months would simply take too much time. This variety relies on a single common factor – the members of staff who are prepared to give so generously of their time and expertise after school, at weekends and in many cases during their holidays to support and develop the pupils of Foyle; time, expertise and commitment that, dare I say it, are not always fully appreciated by many of those who benefit. Once again Foyle has seen significant changes in staffing during the past year. Probably the most noteworthy has been the retirement of Mr William Lynn after thirty-eight and a-half years loyal service. It is typical of William’s dedication that despite being officially retired as of the 31 August and having suffered a family bereavement this week he insisted on being present this evening to ensure the smooth running of what is one of the most significant events of the school year – my thanks to you, William. Mr Richard McKeegan and Mr Jim McBride have both taken a career break and their places have been taken for the coming year by Miss Cara McAleer and Mr Steven Young in the Chemistry and History Departments respectively. Permanent appointments to the teaching staff for the new school year have been Miss Kathryn Sayers to Maths, Mrs Michaela Leonard to ICT, Mr Barry Duffy to English, Mrs Claire Robinson to History and Mr Alistair Ferguson to Boys PE and Miss Nicole Sloane to Geography and Geology. We also take this opportunity to offer our congratulations to the former Miss Claire Graham who became Mrs Robinson towards the end of the summer and to Ms Kerry Eakin and her husband David on the birth of their son Tom, to Mrs Louise Buchanan and her husband Steven on the birth of their daughter Katie and finally to Mrs Janet Campbell and her husband Robert on the birth of their son Louis Robert.

People outside a school don’t always appreciate that its strength relies not only on its teaching staff but also on those who work in support roles and once again we have lost a significant number of highly experienced ancillary staff. Mrs Linda McLean retired as Assistant Bursar after twelve years, Mrs Marion McGeehan retired after sixteen years in a variety of roles latterly providing invaluable support to pupils with Special Educational Needs, Mrs Gladys Peoples and Mrs Linda Hughes retired from the Junior School canteen after eighteen and twenty-three years respectively and Mrs Esther Astbury retired after twenty- nine years maintaining the exemplary standards of cleanliness in the Junior School. Such dedication to the school and its pupils will be sorely missed and will be hard to replace.

As has been the practice in previous years we have asked the Head Girl and Boy to report principally on those areas of school life in which they are directly involved so that you will get a flavour of the breadth of experience to which our pupils have access. These two young people embody all that is best about grammar school education for they have seized their opportunities in order to excel academically, athletically and artistically and I would

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encourage pupils of all ages to follow their example, and that of this evening’s guest speaker, during their time at Foyle College.

I will now hand over to our Head Girl Alexandra Graham who will be followed by the Head Boy Patrick Leeson to report on the past year’s extra-curricular events.

Head Girl’s Speech

Academic success is complemented at Foyle College by the wide variety of extra curricular activities undertaken. Patrick and I hope to provide you with a brief overview of some of the activities enjoyed by pupils over the past year. First Eleven Hockey faced a challenge this year, as we said good-bye to a large number of experienced upper sixth players from our squad. Encouraged by the coaching skills of Katherine Rough, we had an enjoyable season, finishing mid-table in the Derry Antrim league, beating old rivals Limavady Grammar in the process. With the inexperienced squad still settling into a team, the 20 November and our schools’ cup

19 tie with Victoria College seemed to come very early. So for the third year in a row we travelled to Belfast with our loyal supporters. Despite some good play, particularly in defence, plus a superb goal by vice captain Kelly McClintock, our lack of confidence and experience meant that we came second. Our disappointment was deepened as our captain Alison Maybin sustained a serious ankle injury, which impacted greatly on her playing season. Based on results alone, it was a disappointing season. However, it ended on a positive note, with many players showing great promise for future teams. The Second Eleven continued to impress under the watchful eyes of Miss Eakin and Mrs Karayiannis. Having successfully beaten Belfast High school in a thrilling Plate match, they unfortunately lost in the next round to South Regional College, although the loss did not reflect their talent and ability. The Thirds, coached by Miss Graham, had an enjoyable but competitive season, with twenty-five girls regularly attending practice, providing a good introduction to senior hockey. Junior hockey once again excelled, with Mrs Wylie’s under 14 team winning the North West hockey league. Talented year 10 pupil,Esther Hume, trained all season with the Ulster Talent Development squad, and along with Kelsey Hargan, played on the Under 15 Western squad. At senior level Rosie McSorley, Tara Mackey and Katie Scott were selected to play on the Under 17 squad. On behalf of all Foyle College hockey players, I would like to thank our coaches and supporters for their encouragement, and we look forward to the challenges of the new season.

Our athletes had a very successful season, with a record number of forty-five students taking part in the district’s track and field event. Katie Scott won the girl’s 100m , rounding off her success by finishing fourth in the Ulster final. Caolon Coyle reached the Ulster final of the minor boy’s 100m, with Rhys Hughes reaching the Irish schools’ cross country competition having been placed highly at district and Ulster level. The senior boys’ Badminton team had a very rewarding season overall, narrowly missing out on a chance to play in the Ulster finals of the league. They also had a very close match against Bangor Grammar in the cup, losing 4-2 on the day with all games going to three sets. Over the past year 140 pupils took part in the Duke Of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. I was one of thirty plus pupils braving the waters of Lough Erne, on our Gold canoeing expedition in August. The sense of personal achievement on finishing made all the effort worthwhile and almost enjoyable! Cycling and hiking expeditions were also undertaken, with twenty pupils also completing their Gold expeditions over the summer. Many Silver and Bronze hiking expeditions were also organised throughout the year and as pupils we want to thank all the teachers involved in the supervision and operation of the scheme, especially Mr and Mrs Hannaway.

February 2012 saw the return of the highly popular Stars In Their Eyes competition. With ten acts from the Senior school, eight from the Junior school and many more auditionees, the depth and breadth of talent was clear for all to see. Aaron Feathers was captivating as pop legend Michael Buble, and Joseph, Frank and Jonathan gave us a blast from the past with a ‘Jimi Hendrix Experience’. However the overall winners were Amy Gardiner from the senior school as Emile Sande, and Emily Dougherty from the Junior School as Adele, not forgetting the awe inspiring pop medleys from both male and female staff members.

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For the budding actors of our school, the Shakespeare Schools’ Festival provided the opportunity for them to show case their talents. After weeks of rehearsals both junior and senior pupils performed their thirty minute version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream to an appreciative audience. Junior SU, under the leadership of Mrs Lynch, Mrs Steele, Mrs Colhoun and Mrs Moore, was enjoyed by all who attended and in a new venture SU members took assembly twice a term. Senior SU,led by Mrs Thomas , Miss Graham and Mr Harrington continues to thrive with a variety of guest speakers providing challenging talks at the Monday lunchtime meetings.

Foyle College’s senior public speaking and debating club this year entered two teams in the Northern Ireland school’s debating competition. The teams comprised of Lauren McCracken with Ethan Wallace and Richard Magee with Michael Hayden, with the latter team reaching the second round of the competition. Both teams gave insightful and challenging speeches and should be commended for their hard work, as Patrick and I can assure you, performing a six minute speech is a challenging experience! Inspired by the senior pupils and coupled with Miss Elliott’s enthusiasm the Junior School’s public speaking and debating club flourished. Pupils had the opportunity to speak on a range of subjects from ‘Reality TV’ to ‘Cosmetic surgery’, with Hannah Lawther winning the Junior Public Speaking Cup.

I hope I have provided you with a brief insight into some aspects of the busy and rewarding life of Foyle College. In the words of Chuck Palahniuk, ‘All the effort in the world won’t matter if you’re not inspired!’ The teachers of Foyle College inspire us, as pupils, to strive for our personal best, both academically and in extra-curricular activities, and for this, we are truly grateful.

Thank you.

Alexandra Graham

Head Boy’s Speech

As Alexandra has already alluded to, Foyle College is a unique school, perfectly blending its high calibre of academic achievement, much of tonight being testament to this, with a host of extracurricular activities superbly delivered by our dedicated staff.

As ever, rugby was a popular sport this past year with a large numbers of boys turning out regularly to training. The 1st XV did not have a wonderfully successful

21 season largely due to our inconsistent form and significant injuries. We started the season with disappointing losses to Portora and our local rivals Limavady Grammar but soon improved, recording hard fought wins against Portora, Carrick and Dalriada. The 1st XV were captained this season by Kyle Henderson and assisted by our Ulster Schools’ Representative and Vice-Captain Neil Burns. Unfortunately, Kyle suffered an almost season ending knee injury against Coleraine Inst. in early November, only managing twenty more minutes of rugby; a sad end to his rugby career at Foyle. Neil represented Ulster Schools for three years in a row, a very rare feat for any schoolboy. He is currently part of, and has been training all summer with, the Ulster Under 20 squad. In the third round of the Schools’ Cup we faced Down High but lost this fixture 24-13. So, we were entered into the bowl competition and progressed to the semi-final, but lost out to Omagh Academy who went on to win this subsidiary competition.

The 2nd XV or ‘The Mighty Twos’ as they were affectionately known had a fairly successful season recording a number of victories and displaying great potential for the upcoming season. Led by Fraser Millen, they got off to a good start, defeating Portora and Omagh but lost narrowly and unluckily to Limavady and Coleraine Inst. In the 2nd XV Schools Cup they defeated Portadown but lost in the next round to regent house in a very ‘spirited’ encounter.

Because of the numbers of players, Foyle was also able to field a 3rd XV squad who played in their own Schools’ Cup, drawing with Down High 8-8 but losing in the next leg.

The Senior Squad also had the opportunity to host and play against a Victoria Schools Rugby Union touring side from Australia, selected from all over the 240,000 square km state of Victoria. Both the teams in this touring squad were hugely physical and gave us a great insight into Southern Hemisphere rugby. Also, a select XV played a Canadian side, the LV Bombers and enjoyed a comprehensive victory to conclude our rugby for the year.

Music is a large part of school life here at Foyle, with many talented musicians and singers. The Christmas and Spring concerts were, as usual held at Christ Church, a superb venue. As ever, these were very successful, perfectly showcasing the skills and flair of our performers, with some particularly impressive solos from our year 14 leavers. The jazz band were notably active this past year, furthering their reputation throughout the city, playing numerous gigs ranging from a Christmas set in the Craft Village to home hosting and playing with Wallingford School Big Band, a band from another Merchant Taylors School in England. The highlight for myself and many others was during the Jazz festival when we played alongside the wonderful JayDee Brassband from Holland in a New Orleans Second Line jazz parade, starting at Castle Street making its way over the peace bridge, ending in Ebrington Square, playing famous numbers including ‘St James Infirmary Blues’ and ‘Mardis Gras’. The Combined Cadet Force was thriving this past year with high numbers attending all three sections on Wednesday nights and also numerous weekend events such as Range Days. Notably, Jack Gibson was overall runner up in the Northern Ireland 38 Brigade Champion Cadet Competition with yours truly winning the orienteering competition. This year, the Army Section’s annual summer camp took us to Beckingham Training Camp in Nottinghamshire for an action-packed week,

22 culminating with a win in the Drill competition and a runners up spot in the overall competition. From personal experience, this was one of the best camps to date. Our Shooting team travelled to Bisley in Surrey for an annual nationwide shooting competition, performing exceptionally well and winning the Royal Irish Rangers Cup, breaking Campbell College’s unbroken run since 1990.

Although the RAF section has fewer numbers they’re still as active as ever, going on their usual trips to 664 Volunteer Gliding Squadron and a summer camp to RAF Halton in Ayelsbury, Buckinghamshire. Congratulations to Aaron Feathers, one of only five cadets in the UK selected for an RAF Association twelve-hour flying scholarship which culminated in his flying solo.

The Junior Magistrates team was particularly successful this year, winning their Regional Bar Mock trials in the Laganside courts, and qualifying for the national finals in Nottingham, making it down to the last sixteen of 390 competing schools.

Cricket is a great tradition in Foyle, with teams generally excelling at the highest level. This season was not as successful for the 1st XI as previous years, losing in the second round of the schools cup to Limavady Grammar, although the disappointment was slightly assuaged as Limavady were the eventual winners of the competition. On the second XI we fared better, reaching the final of the Second Schools’Cup but were beaten, again, by Limavady. So, we’re out for revenge this year!

As Alexandra mentioned, Duke of Ed is thriving in Foyle, and unlike her I stayed off the water and had the opportunity to cycle and camp through the hills of Donegal for four days, staying at some truly spectacular campsites such as in the Poison Glen at the foot of Errigal, a fantastic experience. Our bikes were faulty, the weather often horrendous and the midges worse. But, as they say, ‘if it was easy, everyone would have one.’

Foyle’s globetrotting fencers have, as ever, reigned supreme this year in terms of international achievement, with EimileMcSorley, Anna Jackson and Lucia McAfferty representing Ireland at the Junior Wold Cup Epée Tournaments in Kiev and Burgos. In addition, Niamh Spence fenced for Ireland at the Junior World Cup Sabre Tournament, also held in Kiev. Laura McElhinney, Rosie McGonagle, Jonathan Burnside and Jamie Price travelled to European Cadet Epée Tournaments in Copenhagen and Krakow. Foyle will send eight fencers on the Northern Ireland team to the upcoming UK School Games later this month.

On a personal note I have gained so much from my time at Foyle College for which I will always be grateful and I am positive many of my peers will agree. This school offers every pupil the opportunity for intellectual, personal and character development both inside and outside the classroom. As the old saying goes, ‘you get out what you put in’ and here at Foyle College this is certainly true.

Also, on behalf of Alexandra, myself and the rest of our year group, I would like to say a sincere thanks to our committed and enthusiastic teachers and all other school staff for their dedication, example and leadership. Without them, our school simply would not be what it is today.

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Thank you.

Patrick Leeson

Guest Speaker Prizegiving Speech

Governors, headmaster, staff, pupils and guests,

Thank you for the kind invitation to join all of you this evening. Ten years ago, not too far from here in Christ Church, I was addressing prizegiving as Head Boy alongside Head Girl Charlotte Simpson. That time around, I remember our speeches getting a thorough going over by both Mrs Wilson and Mr McNee. This time, Mr Lynn has,

24 rather bravely, given me free rein, so tonight you’re getting the uncut version!

My message to you as a prizewinner this evening is simple: think big.

I want to challenge you to think big about what you could achieve in the future whether that is academic success, sporting success or whatever the word may mean to you personally.

Our city has done so, in showcasing a remarkable series of events to the whole country as the UK’s city of culture. Our own school has done so, in pursuing with determination the new site as we approach its 400th anniversary in 2017. And clearly you have already done so, in achieving a highly impressive set of results.

Whether it’s a book token or sword in your hand, your prizes should, upon looking back, make you proud of the work that you put in to earn them. Upon looking forward, they might act as signposts to your future careers, motivate you to avoid complacency, and build your confidence because the best indicator of future success is past success.

Behind all of those prizes are your teachers, parents, families and many others. All had a part to play and I want to join you in thanking them for their contribution to your success this evening.

I always thought that one of the odd things about prizegiving is that you receive your prize from, and shake the hand of, someone who is a bit of an unknown quantity to you.

Well, ten years ago, I was very much like you, a pupil at the college. I was studying four A-levels, Maths with Mr Mercer, Chemistry with Mr Given, English Literature with Mr Keown and Miss Johnston and Physics with Dr Carson. The sciences were my subject, and outside of the classroom I was into music, with treble clefs on the tie. At the time, our year was in intense negotiations with the City Hotel over arrangements for the formal, my Duke of Edinburgh group and I were making the classic mistake of assuming that doing Gold Award on bike is easier than doing it on foot, which of course is true, when you’re going downhill, and the cast of Anniewere busy learning their lines.

As I approached the end of my time at Foyle, I was encouraged by my teachers to apply to the University of Oxford, and was offered a place there to study physics. After graduating, I wanted to stay involved with science but I also wanted to give something back and find a fresh challenge. I found that challenge in Teach First, a charity that places graduates as teachers in some of the country’s most challenging schools for two years. I completed my two years as a science teacher in north London, in a school which certainly lived up to its ‘challenging’ designation.

Whilst there, I volunteered for a programme designed to encourage bright students from disadvantaged backgrounds to apply to universities. This involved teaching and coaching on Saturday mornings in the surroundings of Eton College, which unfortunately for its pupils has lessons on Saturdays! I will never forget the stark contrast between these two schools, thirty miles and thirty thousand pounds per year

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Now, when I was sitting where you are sitting, I instinctively knew that Northern Irish schools were better,we did get a full two months, versus six weeks of summer holiday after all! But Teach First was also a sobering reality check, it made me realise just how fortunate we are to have an education of Foyle College’s standard.

But, whether a north London comprehensive or Eton, the same rule applied: the teachers who were thinking the biggest about what their students could achieve had some of the best results, and not just academically.

After Teach First, I moved back into science, landing what you could describe as my ‘dream job’ at the European Space Agency in Holland. I was involved in proposals for experiments on the International Space Station that are designed to help the development of technology here on Earth.

But as it turned out, ‘the science bit’, planning all those experiments (the hypothesis, method, results, discussion), that was the easy part. What was hard was getting money, and especially getting money from eighteen countries all with their own ideas about what was best. So, after that year, I began to get interested in science policy. In fact, I got so frustrated that I decided to take it to the top. I wrote to the then UK government minister for science, Lord Drayson. Now, don’t be fooled by the fancy title, he’s just another person like you or me. In his reply, he gave me some great advice and invited me to a debate he was participating in at Westminster. His key advice was to get involved more in industry.

The message here is that I encourage you all to reach out to those who are at the top of your interest. Lord Drayson wasn’t lucky enough to be a Foyle pupil, but this especially applies if that person attended Foyle! I am sure they would be more than happy to offer you invaluable support.

So, after a year at ESA, I took up my current job as an engineer at Rolls Royce in England. Rolls Royce doesn’t make cars any more, instead, we make what we like to call ‘power systems’, or more simply put, engines. Mainly we make jet engines for commercial planes such as the Jumbo Jet, but with a few modifications, these engines can be used powering ships, pumping oil, or generating electricity.

As part of a team making the world’s most efficient large jet engine, I have worked in the UK, Singapore, and bi-lingual Canada where GCSE French, eleven years later, came back into play!

The key point is that both my university and early working career have been built upon those handshakes that I received, as you just have, at prizegiving ceremonies over the years.

Now there is a catch to all of this. Thinking big about what you want to achieve, on its own, is not enough. It’s a great starting point but you must also plan, put in the hours of work and take advantage of opportunities as they come along.

If you are about to head off to university enjoy every minute. But have a plan in place

26 for your future career, and above all, get real life work experience. The reality is that the job market is tough. And once you start making the big bucks, support your school, so that those who come after you may have the opportunities that you did.

If you are in the thick of things, keep up the good work, and don’t be afraid to be ambitious about what you want to achieve.

And if this is your first prizegiving, I hope that you make a habit of it.

So, before the regular rhythm of term-time routine sets in, think big about your future. No one is in any doubt that this is difficult at the moment, especially when school budgets are anything but. It is all too easy to be cynical. But if there is one time of the school year where thinking big is allowed, even encouraged, it is this evening.

I wish you all happy thinking and congratulations.

John McClean

Louis Fields, Head Boy 2012-13, receiving the Lawrence Medal, Also in the photo, John McClean, Guest Speaker, and Mr Patrick Allen, Headmaster

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Former Pupils’ Association Joint Presidents Lily Swinson and Billy Young, with John McClean, Guest Speaker, and Mr Patrick Allen, Headmaster, at the Prizegiving Ceremony

Colours Presentation

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Receiving the JSM Huey Salver for Rugby, Neil Burns (Vice-Captain) and Kyle Henderson (Captain), also in the picture, William Lynn and Headmaster Patrick Allen

Leavers’ Destinations

Pupils are proceeding to Degree Courses as follows in September 2013:

University of Aberdeen John Longwell

University of Bedfordshire Alisha McCandless

University of Birmingham Anna Jackson

University of Cambridge Niamh Spence

University of Chester James Ferry

Coventry University College Ross Frazer

University of East Anglia Laura Harper

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University of Edinburgh David Lapsley, Victoria McCloskey, James Murphy, Matthew Wray

University of Glasgow Steven Browne, Kyle Henderson, Louis Fields, Jade McClements

University of Hertfordshire Craig Thompson

Heriot Watt University Laura Baldrick, Claire Hamilton, Jessica (Rose) Higgins, Andrew Large, Rachel Lecky, Jordan Mills, Gabriele Narvilaite

ImperialCollegeLondon Mark Monaghan

University of Central Lancashire Stephen Doherty

Liverpool JohnMooreUniversity Luke Baldrick, Jane Burley, AmanNagra, SukhmeenNagra, Alice Smyth, Dean Thomas

University College of London Richard Magee

University of Manchester Lauren McCracken

Manchester MetropolitanUniversity Lucia McCafferty

Queen’s University Belfast Neil Burns, Stephanie Burton, Graham Caldwell, Ryan J Curry, Aaron Daly, Laura Dougherty, Lucy Dougherty, Luke Galbraith, Shanagh Henderson, Alan Hogg, Kent King, Mayfan Ling, Rachel McCombe, Olivia Moore, John Neilly, Benjamin Peilow (Ben), Andrew Young

NewcastleUniversity Alice Kennedy

St John’s Nottingham Michael Hayden

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University of Nottingham Niamh Connolly

NorthumbriaUniversity Harry Arthur, Ryan D Curry, Rachel Horner, John Mills, Gemma Orr, Joanne Williams

University of Stirling Daniel Martin

University of Southampton EimileMcSorley

University of Strathclyde Alison Maybin

StranmillisCollege CherithColhoun, Gillian Ross

University of Ulster Jonathan Curry, Jake Doherty, Rachel Gillard, Naomi Hamilton, Andrew Lee, Katherine Magee, Jack Marshall, Oliver McCarter, Nicholas (Nicky) Morton, Stuart Nicholl, James Perry, Natasha Simpson, Nathan Tennis, Zoe Warnock, Sarah Willis

North WestRegionalCollege Tessa Crawford, Shannon Devine, Celie Diver, Mark Gallagher, Craig Gilchrist, Evan Gilchrist, Darah Glenn, Katie McCracken, Sarah McKittrick, Hollie Ming, Megan O’Doherty, Miriam O’Donnell, Erin O’Driscoll, Simon Stevenson, Ethan Wallace

Scottish Rural College Charlie Starrett

Greenmount College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise Rebekah Chambers

Gap Year Amy Astbury

Employment Richie Allen, Jordan Austin, Jamie Huey

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Graduations

Queen’s University Belfast

Joel Brown MEng (UM) Mechanical Eng First Class Honours Dean Crown MEng (UM) Mechanical Eng First Class Honours Kieran Gallagher MB (S) Medicine PASS Edwina Hegarty MB (S) Medicine PASS Steven McDowell BSc, Environmental Planning Second Class Hons, Upper Division Kyle Ruddy MPharm (UM) Pharmacy Second Class Hons, Upper Division Sanjit Singh BDS (S) Dentistry PASS Debbie-Anne Thompson MEng (UM) Civil Engineering First Class Honours

University of Ulster

Glenn Baird BSc Hons Banking & Finance 2nd Class Hons Lower Division Matthew Barr BSc Hons Bus w Account. 2nd Class Hons Upper Division Jason Bell BSc Hons Quantity SurveyDPP 2nd Class Hons Upper Division Aimee Bradley BSc Hons Physiotherapy 1st Class Honours Chloe Cairns LLB Hons Law 2nd Class Hons Upper Division

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Michelle Curran BMus Hons Music 2nd Class Hons Lower Division John Diver BA Hons Drama w AmerStd 2nd Class Hons Upper Division Louise Duddy BSc Hons Social Work 2nd Class Hons Upper Division Jenny England BSc Hons Human Res Mgt 2nd Class Hons Upper Division Holly Gould BSc Hons Psychology 2nd Class Hons Upper Division Kelsey Keys BSc Hons Fin &Inv Anal 2nd Class Hons Upper Division Mark Lecky BEng Hons Mech. Engin 2nd Class Hons Lower &Comm Kelly McDermott BSc Hons Banking & Finance 2nd Class Hons Lower Division Steven Pollock BSc Hons Building Survey 2nd Class Hons Upper Division Sarah Whiteman BSc Hons Bus w Account. 2nd Class Hons Lower Division Emma Wray BSc Hons Biomed Sc DPP(Path) 2nd Class Upper & Commendation Melissa Wright BMus Hons Music 2nd Class Hons Upper Division

Aston University

Rena Kular – Master of Pharmacy

University of Edinburgh

Natalie Jackson – Law (LLB) - Second Class Hons, Upper Division

University of Manchester

Robin Cooke – BSc (Hons) Geography and Geology – Second Class Hons, Upper Division

University of Surrey

Alison Marshall – Adult Nursing – 1st Class Hons and the Morgan Prize for achievement of the highest marks in academic and clinical assessments.

University of Warwick

J.A.C.Black MVB MRCVS (pupil 1956-1963 ) achieved BA(Hons) in French Studies

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Staff Retirements

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William Lynn

William joined Foyle College at Lawrence Hill as a pupil in September 1962 and saw the move to Springtown in 1967. After completing his A-levels he proceeded to Queen’s University where he studied geography with geology and archaeology, graduating in 1974. He began his teaching career in Londonderry High School in January 1975 to cover a maternity leave for the Head of Geography. He was appointed to commence teaching geography in Foyle College from September. Hugh Gillespie, the headmaster at the time, encouraged him to introduce Geology as an O-level subject and at A-level the following year. As time progressed and the subject increased in popularity, he took a degree in Earth Sciences through the Open University. He is the last remaining member of staff to have experienced the amalgamation of Foyle with LHS and the creation of the coeducational Foyle and Londonderry College with its subsequent re-branding in 2011 to Foyle College.

In spite of his reluctance to become actively involved in anything incorporating violence such as sport, he became very active in the keeping of House records and Colours awards and outside school went on to become Honorary Secretary, Chairman and eventually President of City of Derry RFC in 2010. He has been a long standing member of the committee of the Old Boys’ Association and latterly the Former Pupils’ Association.

Later his teaching career saw him transfer his responsibilities from geography to geology and from a mixture of junior and senior classes to becoming exclusively involved with A-level classes in Duncreggan. This included spending a considerable time studying geology in the field. He was a firm believer in getting the pupils out of

35 the classroom. In the early days students were transported to exotic locations in Wales and Dorset to examine geological wonders and to tramp the length and breadth of Ireland sometimes in the least clement of weathers. I can still conjure up the image William portrayed of a well-known student making her way across boggy fields in high heels a flimsy top and a short skirt whilst all the while clutching a gold lamé handbag full of all those essential items that a young lady needs to look well on a field trip.

What I recall with great fondness are the trips which William organised to broaden the student’s understanding of culture. I went on two memorable trips to Athens and the Greek Islands and to Rome. My colleague Pamela has accompanied him on many other trips to the Rhineland, south of France, Austria, Venice, Holland and Poland as well as a ski trip to the Bulgaria. She recalls the antics of the Columbian language assistants as they were hauled in by customs at each of the borders we crossed on a tour to Venice – fortunately they were not members of a suspected drug cartel. On another occasion the coach drivers took a diversion of over one hundred miles to Luxembourg because they could fill up there with cheap diesel, but running low on fuel, the coach ground to a standstill on a remote country road and Pamela was required to flag down a passing car and go to the nearest petrol station. The most recent and final tour was to Berlin and Krakow which involved an overnight train journey between the two. Although multilingual, Pamela was at a loss with the Russian guards on the train and had serious misgivings about wakening up next morning somewhere in Siberia. The common element in all these trips, of course, was that William doesn’t suffer fools gladly and can be plain-speaking when needs be but he made them all such good fun and that’s what we will all remember.

William has been a vital and important member of the Careers Department and his role was particularly valued for his outstanding ability as an organiser and his meticulous attention to detail. Once again students were taken out of the classroom to give them an understanding of what life might be like at university. On these trips we travelled to Scotland and the north of England. At their height we visited about a dozen universities in the course of three busy days. Unlike the staff, thestudents were inexhaustible and it was often a bit tricky to get them housed up for the night. William had the perfect solution – ear plugs.

More recently, William has been the driving force behind the publication of a history of the school, a project which had been talked about as long as I remember being involved with the school. William picked it up, gathered around him a very disparate bunch of people, gave them a timescale and drove it through to its publication.

It was never a good idea to get on the wrong side of William or put forward an idea with which he disagreed, you would be dismissed with a perfunctory wave of the hand and a ‘Don’t be so ridiculous’. Within the school, in the midst of the maelstrom of target-setting, initiatives, curriculum mapping, tracking, SMART, WALT and WILT, William’s was always the voice of sanity and reason. Having attended Foyle and spent his whole teaching career in this school, William is fiercely loyal to the school, the staff and the pupils he has taught and to whom he has given careers advice. We will all miss you but know that you will continue to take an active interest in the future of the school and wish you a long, healthy and happy retirement.

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Pamela Coughlin and Ken Thatcher

William being presented with the school crests, with Pamela Coughlin, Clive Austin, Peter Gault and Ken Thatcher

Linda McLean

Linda joined the Foyle College staff in March 2001 taking over from Mrs Brown as Assistant Bursar. Linda’s initial days at Foyle were far from plain sailing as there was only a very brief handover from Mrs Brown and hence no actual bursar in place for her to run things past. In at the deep end! Linda was left not only to do her role but also with the duties of the bursar. The bursar’s role was filled on a temporary basis for a number of years until my full time appointment in 2005. Linda however took to the role with relish and enthusiasm and soon got into the swing of things and made the job her own. On a personal basis I would like to thank Linda for her help and guidance in my early days as bursar in Foyle College. Those were certainly daunting days when I joined Foyle in March 2005 as I had no real knowledge of the internal workings of a school and through Linda’s guidance I successfully navigated this early period. Since those days Linda has always been a fountain of information and her support and professionalism have always been much appreciated.

The roles of Assistant Bursar are many and varied with the main one being payroll. Making sure staff are paid on time with all the proper deductions in place is a key role in any organisation and this also goes for the education sector. The role of payroll is wide ranging and involves many tasks each month. There is the usual PAYE and NI deductions and making sure everything is correct for HMRC, pension deductions and reporting, grant claims to DE, childcare vouchers. The list has grown over the years and what used to be a fairly straightforward process has now been subject to ever increasing bureaucracy. The introduction of differential pension rates for both teaching and support staff and RTI by HMRC caused new levels of complexity which Linda has handled at her efficient best.

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Linda was often the first person that visitors would come across in the school and her outgoing nature and pleasant conversation was most welcoming. Linda had a great knowledge of the mechanics that went into running a school administration and was often a first contact when a query was raised on a matter which was not really her responsibility. She could steer people in the proper direction and would follow this up to make sure things were right. Linda could often be seen helping the office staff out with duties during the day and lending her advice to matters. I know that she will be missed by us all in the administration section.

Outside work Linda is involved in many voluntary aspects of life in the city. I don’t think she will have any difficulty filling her time with activities in her retirement. Should it be spending time with the grandchildren, following her favourite pursuit of Scottish Country Dancing with her husband Ken, continuing in her role as a school governor in a local primary school, holidaying in Madeira or perhaps shopping for shoes! I have no doubt that her days will be filled with activity, conversation and laughter.

Linda on behalf of myself and all those in the school can I thank you for your years of service to the school? The place won’t be the same without you. We wish you a long, healthy and well-deserved retirement.

Neil Stewart – Bursar

Notes and News

Rosemary Adams has published a book of her memories of her childhood in Northern Ireland and her life and experiences in England and Wales. It blends political and psychotic in an interesting way, and views life from a spiritual and uplifting perspective. The astrology contained within it is very readable. It’s titled: I Know Where the Crows Fly – a Book of Home.

Elaine Cuthbert, principal Culmore Primary School appointed MBE for services to education. Joan Dohertynée Millar, appointed MBE for services to the voluntary sector. OisinDuddy, former Head Boy,received the Youth Compassion Award from Richard Moore and the Dalai Lama, at the Children In Crossfire, Culture of Compassion event in the Venue in April.

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Dr David Gibson has been appointed as Lecturer in Stratified Medicine at the University of Ulster, and will be based at C-TRIC at Altnagelvin Hospital where he will undertake a significant research programme of inflammatory diseases.

Stephen Gillespie: Maintaining his close association with Trinity College Oxford, Stephen Gillespie proposed the toast to the Lord Mayor of London, Roger Gifford (a fellow old member of Trinity College), at a dinner for past and present members of Trinity College held at The Mansion House, London on 28 June, 2013. Other guests included Lord Patten, Chancellor of Oxford University and Chairman of the BBC Trust, Sir Ivor Roberts, President of Trinity College, and Sir Brian Jenkins, another old member of Trinity College and Lord Mayor of London 1991-1992. Simon Hunter, Managing Director of Hunter Apparel Solutions has achieved his Chartered Director status. Simon was the IoD NI Family Business Director of the Year in 2011 and was Highly Commended in the national Director of the Year Awards in 2012. Billy Platt is publishing a new book, titled: Cricket at Londonderry AcademicalInstitution/Foyle College 1863 - 2014.

A 200 to 300 page book with a large number of illustrations recording virtually every cricket match played by the former Londonderry Academical Institution and by Foyle College 1stXI, between 1863 and 2014 is being compiled at present by Billy Platt, a former pupil at Foyle College from the mid 1950sto 1960 and a member of the Foyle 1st XI for four years, captaining the team in 1960. Around a third of the research has been completed so far and Billy has discovered some fascinating details relating to many of the matches played down through the years as well as locating all the outstanding batting and bowling performances by the various pupils and teams. In contrast find out when and who dismissed the Foyle College 1st XI for only one run. The scorecard of this match and many other scorecards are included in the year to year text. ‘If all goes well I hope to have the book completed within the next year or so and subject to raising the necessary finance to cover the printing costs I anticipate that the book will available around early 2015.’ At this stage only 100 copies of the book are to be printed and Billy has asked that anyone interested in purchasing a copy of the book in advance of pubication can either contact him at 56 Ballycairn Road, Coleraine, BT51

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3HX or send £15 plus £2 for postage (if necessary).

All monies received will be lodged with the Progressive Building Society in Coleraine pending payment of the printing costs while any proceeds from the book will be donated to the SANDS charity ((Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society). Dr Leah Totton, winner of the 2013 series of The Apprenticehas opened the first of her clinics in London.

Obituaries

Ian Crown BA, BSc

Ian was born on 29 January 1957, the son of Ernest Crown, 27 Richill Park, Kilfennan. He entered Foyle in 1970, and attended the school during years when the city was convulsed by ‘the troubles’. Ian did not play in the school sports teams but for the local Institute Football Club. Throughout his life he remained a supporter of that club. Academically very able, he went to QUB in 1976 to study Mathematics and Statistics. On sitting the final Maths paper and after initially scanning it quickly, he soon discovered a mistake in the last question. When someone arrived from the Mathematics Department, the error was confirmed and Ian was later awarded a first class honours degree. After graduating, he joined the teaching staff at ColeraineAcademical Institution where he lived at first on the school premises as a member of the boarding staff. Following his marriage to Janine five years later, they set up home in Derry and Ian then would commute to work every day. Ian taught Mathematics and Statistics at CAI for thirty-two years and since 1993, he was the Head of that Department. As a much admired and respected teacher, he set high

40 standards in all the various activities in which he engaged, and he was readily approachable, encouraging his pupils to work hard and enjoy their achievements.

Ian loved sport, he skied, played both five-a-side and eleven-a-side football, he played squash and badminton before taking golf up in more recent years. In the school he organised the squash teams which achieved regular success at Ulster and Irish levels. He led a school ski trip to the continent every year for about fifteen years, and in the summer holidays, as a keen cyclist and with other staff, he would cycle to different parts of Ireland, set up camp and spend a week cycling in that area. Ian helped with the JCSS a Christian social welfare service based at the school, and supported their charity work, especially around Christmas. He was also a qualified Driving Instructor.

Following his sudden demise, a Special Assembly was held at the school in order to commemorate, celebrate and give thanks for Ian’s life and work.

Ian Crown died on 24 August 2013 after his usual Saturday run. Both the Institute and Drumahoe Football clubs called off their games in tribute. His funeral took place at Waterside Presbyterian Church on 28 August. He is survived by Janine, his sons Dean and Graham and his daughter Kathy. His sisters Hilary and Glynis are former pupils, as are Dean and Graham, and Kathy currently is a pupil of Foyle College.

Lesley Finlay (née Moore)

Lesley was a skilled ballet dancer from an early age and won numerous medals and awards at the then Londonderry Feis, held annually in the Guildhall.With her perfect poise and posture she had rhythm and beat through every fibre of her body and soul.So it followed she was a gifted musician on piano, guitar and trumpet.

Lesley attended Londonderry High School from 1958-1965.She took her degree at TCD thence to London to take up a post in Business.

Some years later she moved back to Londonderry, where she managed the drapery shop, Moore’s of Derry in Ferryquay Gate.Everyone she met was greeted with her welcoming warmth and bright smile – she always seemed genuinely delighted to see one.After the shop was sold, Lesley and her husband Denis, emigrated to Barbados where they were blissfully happy and enjoyed a magnificent home and garden. Lesley (always mad about dogs) had their two canine pets transported across the Atlantic to share their idyllic abode.

Lesley was diagnosed with a brain tumour late last year and died in Barbados on January 6th – the day of Epiphany.The Funeral/Memorial Service was on 23rd January 2014

Arthur Paul William Hogg

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Arthur Hogg, the son of John C Hogg, of 10 Deanfield was born on Christmas Day 1918. He entered Foyle on 13 April 1926, initially attending the Preparatory school and later the senior school until he left in June 1932. He then went to Campbell College where he became a school prefect, the Captain of the Alleys and a Pipe Major in the school band.

When he joined the 9th Regiment in 1939 he was their youngest officer, he had an unique and distinguished war record, and at his death he was the last original Officer of the 9th Londonderry HAA Regiment. After commanding a section (two guns) in the defence of Alexandria, he was promoted captain and commanded a troop ( four guns) in Palestine and later in Tripoli where the regiment joined the 8th Army in November 1942 and was heavily engaged after the battle of El Alamein. When the Libyan capital fell, the ‘Derry boys’ established gun positions in the harbour and they led the Tripoli defence for three months. The Luftwaffe described their anti-aircraft defence as a ‘Wand Ausstahl - a wall of steel’. After the successful recapture of Sicily, mainland Italy was next invaded and the 9th Regiment was converted to infantry in preparation for the fierce fighting to establish a beach head at Solerno. During intense operations Arthur Hogg collapsed and was evacuated to North Africa for medical treatment.

On recovery and with his regiment, their anti-aircraft guns were next employed to defend southern England against the V1 flying bombs. Their guns took a heavy toll of the V1s, and at the end of the war Arthur rejoined the 9th Londonderry Regiment then stationed in Norfolk where he became a Major and Commanding Officer of the 24th Battery. On discharge in 1946, he returned to civilian life in Derry and rejoined the family firm, Hogg and Mitchell, Great James Street.

With the decline of shirt manufacturing, the factory was eventually sold and Arthur became part of a partnership that set up one of the city’s first supermarkets at Greenhaw Road. He was an enthusiastic member of the City of Derry Drama Society. A lifelong member of First Derry Presbyterian Church, he was an elder and the treasurer for many years. Although a Life member of the Royal Artillery Association, and awarded the Emergency Reserve Decoration, he did not use his military title nor the post-nominal letters of ERD.

Arthur Hogg died in Lisburn on 16 April 2013. His funeral service was held on 22April in First Derry Presbyterian Church with his later burial in the City Cemetery.

T.E.W Huey

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Thomas Edmund Walker Huey was the younger son of Thompson and Jean (née Walker) Huey of the Grove, Ture, Co. Donegal. He was born in Londonderry at Sister Lynch’s nursing home in Bayview Terrace on 28 October 1947. He received his primary education initially at Culmore Irish Society School before moving to the Model Primary in Londonderry. He was under the tutelage of Barry Jamieson before proceeding to Foyle College, Lawrence Hill, in 1959. His love of mathematics was fostered by George Gillanders in Room 1 throughout his time at Foyle … he never succumbed to joining the cadets. He played rugby from Under 13 XV level and became a regular member of the 1st XV in the back row. In those days the pack contained such young men as Albert Sherrard, Arthur Bell and Ken Goodall. Stewart Connolly, his headmaster, was duly impressed by his musical talent as a member of the Glee Club – a guitar playing foursome on whom the Beatles could have modelled themselves. From Foyle he moved to Magee UC where he embarked on a general arts course under the aegis of Trinity College Dublin. While at Magee he captained the Club and spent his sophister years in Dublin pursuing his degree course in Pure and Applied Maths. While attending Trinity, he played his rugby at Old Wesley where he became a regular member of the 1st XV. It was during this phase of his life that he met his future wife, Jill Macartney from Armagh City who was also a TCD undergraduate. Following his graduation in June 1970, he was apprenticed to Claude Wilton in Londonderry where his legal career was enhanced on a broad range of issues and fronts. His post-graduate professional studies at Queen’s University were completed in June 1973. While in Belfast he joined North of Ireland Football Club where he made many friends for life, one of whom was the late Noel Henderson from whom he purchased his cars and spent several sojourns on the mainland representing Jaguar in golf tournaments. Setting up his business in Clarendon Street during the early seventies was a bold and brave move as the city was in turmoil. His practice flourished despite the “troubles” and his clientele came from both communities for which he deserves credit. He never flinched from representing his clients irrespective of status or religion. At a later stage in his legal career he obtained a practising certificate for the Republic of Ireland, enabling his company to operate in both jurisdictions. He became a lifelong member of City of Derry RFC, playing regularly for the Senior XV throughout the seventies and early eighties. During his playing career he captained the Club and later became an influential Chairman and coached the 2nd XV for several years. As Chairman he oversaw the building of several clubhouses at

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Branch Road, processed several claims for the Club from the Northern Ireland Office, and initiated the move to Judges Road at Enagh. Through his links with David Johnston, a fellow solicitor and Scottish Centre, and John Dawes of Wales, he organised several star-studded international XVs to play City of Derry at Branch Road during the early eighties in the amateur era. Cardiff RFC, through his links, hosted City of Derry at Cardiff Arms Park and Glamorgan Wanderers. For over 20 years, a distinguished group of Welshmen including the late Bleddyn Williams and Dr Jack Matthews, established close social ties with Eddie and his colleagues from City of Derry. They would meet annually either in Dublin or Cardiff depending on the location of the game. On the pitch he often displayed a highly competitive and determined spirit which epitomised the motto of his old school viz; Ne UmquamCesseris – never give in. He played a bit of social cricket for St Johnston and, during his youth, badminton for Knowhead Presbyterian Church. He was a member of Greencastle and Dunfanaghy Golf Clubs. His connections with Rotary and the Inner City Trust enabled him to establish relationships across the community divide. There were few places where he did not have contacts. During his year as President of Rotary he organised a St Patrick’s weekend outing to Paris where the assembled company of Maiden City Rotarians and wives promoted the sale of Irish whiskey outside the Galeries Lafayette which was followed by a reception at the Irish Embassy. He was a board member of the Inner City Trust and also served on the board of City of Derry Building Society. As a freemason he was engaged in charity work with Lodge 52 and for several years was treasurer of the local Scout Association. He was also very proud to represent his old school, Foyle College, and served on the Board of Governors for many years. His cross-community links were rewarded when he was appointed a director of the Millennium Theatre. He could never be described as a stereotypical lawyer but rather an entrepreneur and businessman. He was a fairly generous person which was reflected by the loyalty shown by his staff over many years of service. This generosity often extended to others who have their own story to tell. His tenure as High Sheriff of the City recognised his social standing and services to the community in so many ways. His successful professional career owed much to his generosity, his humour, his entrepreneurial spirit and his ability to reach across the community divide. He is survived by his wife, Jill (née Macartney), his daughters Kathryn and Claire, son Christopher, sons-in-law Andrew Rough and Edward Lightowlers, grandsons, Henry and George (Rough) and Charlie and Jack (Lightowlers). We all mourn his passing. JSM Huey

Professor Frank James Lelièvre

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Frank Lelièvre died a few days after his 95th birthday on 2 September 2012. He was a former Governor of Foyle College. He came to Londonderry in 1951 to take up a post as Lecturer in the Classics Department at Magee University College, eventually becoming Professor, President of the College and Dean of Humanities at the new University of Ulster, where he was also Public Orator. Although physically frail towards the end of his life he remained alert, and continued to compose and publish Latin poetry. His seven children all attended Foyle College or LHS.

JG & RE

Sarah Helen Lynn (née Coulter) Died 2 September 2013.

Helen was born in Limavady on 25 October 1925. She was the fourth of ten siblings born to William and Margaret Coulter. William Coulter was a member of the RIC, later to become the RUC and spent the greater part of his career as sergeant in charge of the Victoria Barracks in Strand Road. The family moved from Limavady, first to Strand Road then Marlborough Street and later to Ballinacross House on the Letterkenny Road.

Helen attended Londonderry High School with her sisters Alexandra (Lexie) and Ann. The school was run by Miss McIlroy and Helen enjoyed her years there and became a lifelong member of LHSOGA. After leaving school she worked in Young’s Chemists in Waterloo Place. She met and married Morris Lynn of Creevagh in 1949 and quickly had to adjust to farming life as a housewife and mother. A family of five, (William, David, Doreen, Lorna and Howard), all attended Foyle College and LHS and kept her busy but she found time not only to care for her family but assist with tasks on the farm and maintain a large garden.

As the family grew up and married, she had time for her pastimes, (gardening, decorating, antiques and auctions, tapestry and painting landscapes of Donegal), but her focus was always her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was the heart of the family and is greatly missed by all. WML.

John Murray CB BSc Econ

John Murray was born on 14 May 1939 and entered Foyle College on 4 September 1950. He was the only son of Jack andElvie Murray of Kennedy Place and later Mobuoy, Campsie. During his time at the school John excelled both academically and in sport. He played rugby first for the Medallion XV in 1953 - 54, and in each subsequent year, he was in the first XV. In the Army Cadet Force John became a non-commissioned officer, and he was made a prefect in 1956/57. He then proceeded to QUB, from where he graduated in 1961 with an honours degree in Economics. During term time he enjoyed playing with Bangor RFC and during vacations with his school friends from Derry, to whom he maintained a lifelong attachment.

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After Queen’s, he spent nearly three years in South Wales working in industry and studying accountancy. Here too, rugby featured in his social activities – a pattern maintained throughout his life. He always relished the comradeship of the rugby family and his experiences in the world of rugby both on and off the field were always enjoyable and enriching for him.

When he returned from Wales John worked with the Ulster Farmers Union. There he came to public notice for the first time when he vigorously spoke up for the farming community at a public meeting in Portadown between the Civil Service Planners for the new town of Craigavon and the local farmers whose land was to be taken over. Shortly afterwards, he applied for and was accepted into the Northern Ireland Civil Service who thought it better to have him with them than in opposition!

In 1965 John entered the NICS as Assistant Principal, a fast track route for promising graduate applicants. One highlight of his early years was a two-year secondment to the Treasury in London to work on UK economic forecasting. These were also the first two years of his marriage to Ann (Cunningham), whom he first met when she was a Londonderry High School pupil. His Civil Service career prospered and his abilities as a clear thinker and able administrator were recognised by all who worked with and for him. He worked mainly in the Department of Finance and Personnel, but later other areas of government work also called him. By 1975 he was a Senior Assistant Secretary and seconded to the N I Housing Executive as the Director of Reorganisation. This was a very challenging time for the NIHE as there were wholesale changes in the management of public housing, alleged discrimination practices and large-scale redevelopment of slum areas. To drive through internal change in the NIHE structures was politically difficult as well. John’s success was recognised in his further promotions in DFP and also in the Dept of Agriculture where, among his Under Secretary’s responsibilities, he travelled every month to Brussels to represent Northern Ireland at the EU Council’s discussions on farming issues. In 1988 John became Permanent Secretary of the Dept of the Environment, the largest government department with nearly 10,000 employees. He was now accountable for an enormous spending budget including the Roads and Water Services and the Historic Monuments and Conservation.

On his return from Wales in 1964, he was encouraged by Billy Traill and Ian Kennedy to join CIYMS Rugby Club. There he met other Derry men and with whom he happily played his favourite sport. Sometimes playing for the first XV, more regularly for the second XV, his heart really lay with the 3Bs and the 4Bs. Always the team captain, his team mates remained his lifelong friends. On ending his playing days, he became active in committee work and represented CIYMS at the Ulster Branch for many years. In 1988/89, he was the President of CIYMS. In 1997, he was elected IRFU Ulster Branch President. With professional rugby in its infancy, John was the key figure in guiding Ulster Rugby through a difficult period, and at many rugby clubs throughout Ulster, he was a humorous and much welcomed speaker. In 1991 John was made a Companion of the Bath (CB) in recognition of his public service. After over six years at the DOE, he became Permanent Secretary of Agriculture where he stayed until retirement.

Although he was immediately diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, he continued to be active in rugby circles, travelling worldwide with Ann, and enjoying supporting the

46 victorious Lions Tour in South Africa in 1997. John suffered the symptoms of Parkinson’s for 20 years with great cheerfulness and determination. He attended the Friday evening matches at Ravenhill until the end of his life, he went to CI on Saturday afternoons and also met his friends for a chat during the week. As his mobility decreased he was still able to read, particularly about Irish history and politics. For the last 18 months he lived in the Richmond Nursing Home at Cultra where he had a constant stream of visitors who would also take him out for lunch. John Murray died on 19 March 2013. He is greatly missed by his wife Ann, his son Jonathan, his daughter Helen and his sister Valerie (also a LHS former pupil.)

Arthur Ernest Thompson

Arthur Thompson was born on 21 February 1940, the son of Loftus and Winifred Thompson who lived at 13 Nicholson Terrace. After attending Christ Church Primary School, he entered Foyle on 3 September 1951. He was a member of the Dramatic Society and sang in the chorus of sailors and mariners in the 1955 school production of HMS Pinafore. As a school project he designed a space ship and revealed an early interest in transportation. On leaving the school in 1951, he attended night classes at the Londonderry Technical College in order to prepare for a career in Accountancy.

Initially he worked with C&J Montgomery and then with Ben Sherman, the shirt manufacturers. In 1972 he joined McCartney and Company and stayed until his retirement.

Arthur had a lifelong interest in the various forms of transportation, and was heavily involved in the North-West of Ireland Railway Society (formerly the Narrow Gauge Railway Trust). He enjoyed frequent rail travel usually in Ireland and liked a summer holiday in the Isle of Man. He also attended the Derry City football matches at Brandywell. He was a member of the choir of Carlisle Road Methodist Church, and participated in the Men’s Clubs of the Cathedral and Clooney Hall.

Arthur Thompson died on 16 July 2013 and a memorial service was held on 23July in Carlisle Road Methodist Church, the church which was such a major part of his life.

Pamela Warnock (née Browne) 25 06 1963 - 14 09 2013

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It is with great sadness that I write this obituary for my dear cousin and friend Pamela Warnock, who passed away on the morning of Saturday 14 September 2013, following a prolonged struggle with cancer. No words of mine convey the overwhelming sense of loss or the remarkable impact Pam had on the lives of so many. Not only did she light up every room she walked into but filled it with the sound of laughter.

Born on the 25 June 1963, Pam’s childhood was spent on the family dairy farm in Lenamore with her mother Olive, father John and her older brother and sister, Derek and Linda. Pam loved working on farm during the holidays, bottling the milk and bringing in the harvest. She would often be seen in the lanes around the farm helping her father herd the cattle from field to field.

Pam began school life at Ballyarnett Primary School before moving to the 'new' school, Greenhaw when Ballyarnett closed. After the 11+ exams she started at Londonderry High School for Girls, with Miss Christie as Head Mistress. In Pamela’s third year the school amalgamated with the boys at Foyle College to become Foyle and Londonderry College. Needless to say Pam was then as popular with the boys as she was with the girls (Yes, we were jealous!). As well as her academic achievements, Pam enjoyed and excelled at sport and was in the school first teams for both hockey and netball and was particularly successful at athletics. It is a testament to her popularity that she became a prefect during her Upper Sixth year.

After leaving school in 1981, Pam joined Ulster Bank and enjoyed a highly successful career over 27 years serving in Branches in Coleraine, Waterside, Strabane and Waterloo Place. Pam’s talent, hard work and of course her popularity with both staff and customers was soon recognised and she was promoted quickly to Assistant Manager before progressing to Manager in 2002. It is no surprise that Pam was a natural leader who not only enjoyed the confidence of her staff but was renowned for always seeing and bringing the best out of her staff. Pam enjoyed further success as a Business Development Manager and finally as Manager supporting a Change Management Programme throughout the Northern Ireland Branch Network.

Following her successful banking career Pam set up a mortgage brokerage business prior to the credit crunch. Despite rationing of mortgages success came naturally to Pam. It goes without saying that the bulk of her business was generated by personal recommendations from existing clients.

Pam had two children, Philip (21) and Jan (18), after her marriage to Ronnie Warnock 1987. She was devoted to them both from the moment they were born.

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Pamela was a particularly proud when they both continued the ‘Browne’ family tradition of attending Foyle and Londonderry College. It is a credit to her that they are now both such thoughtful and responsible young adults, who are both doing well in their studies.

Pam was a committed Christian who was a well respected member of the congregation and was fully involved with all aspects of Knowhead Church bringing her enthusiasm and sense of fun to many an event and her role as a Sunday School teacher.

Throughout Pam’s life she had a great love of music and singing. She was a member of Knowhead Church choir and also sang with the Northlands House Choir at Foyle. Her love of country and western music was well known and it would not be unusual for her to get a party of people spontaneously line dancing with her. There was never a dull moment when Pam was around!

In her later years Pamela became an accomplished skier and particularly enjoyed the opportunities afforded by the après ski scene to engage her passion for singing and dancing, no matter the time of day.

During this past year, Pam’s illness was fought with the love and support of her partner Paul Erskine. Despite a particularly onerous prognosis she never lost heart or faith and the remarkable courage and resilience she displayed during her illness was truly incredible. Pam made sure that the true extent of her illness was not known until her final days in order to protect those that she loved the most. She ensured that she made the most of the time she had and theirs was a very happy home. Indeed the last year of Pam’s life was a series of milestones, all of which she achieved. She got engaged to Paul in September 2012, hosted an amazing surprise party for her mother’s 80th birthday in January, celebrated her own 50th and Philip’s 21st birthday in June and Jan’s 18th birthday in August.

Pam was one of the most vibrant and vivacious people I have ever known. She was a loyal friend and had the ability to touch the lives of everyone she met with her warmth, generosity, spontaneity, humour, kindness and finally her bravery. She died surrounded by the love of Paul, her children, her family and many friends. A very bright light left our lives on Saturday, 14 September 2013 and it was a testament to Pamela’s life that some 700 mourners attended her funeral at Knowhead.

I know that when we remember Pam it will be with a smile – and then a laugh.

Roy Seddon FCD Physical Education Master 1961-1973

Roy Seddon came to Foyle College from King’s Norton Grammar School in the autumn of 1961. Holding an Honours Diploma from Loughborough College and additional qualifications from Nottingham University, he was a breath of fresh air in the school which previously only made provision for the games of rugby and cricket. At once he started both the gymnastics and cross-country clubs and by the end of his first term, he had organised a swimming gala. Roy Seddon became a regular member of Derry City Football Club and was in the team which won the IFA cup in

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1964. It was an awkward situation for those Foyle boys who turned out to support Derry City and who were expected to call him ‘Mr Seddon’, even as he played the game.

In 1973 he left the school and, after attending a course at Carnegie College, Leeds, he returned to Derry as the Senior Recreation Officer in the newly formed Amenities Department of Londonderry City Council. It was due to his work that the city acquired more soccer pitches, but his lasting legacy can be seen in the playing fields at Prehen and Lisnagelvin, the riverside parkland along Foyle Road to the Daisy Field, together with the parklands at Bay Road and at Ballyarnett. He contributed to the design process for both the Lisnagelvin Leisure Centre and the Pilots Row Centre. It was due to his foresight that the Brandywell Sports Centre was developed on the site of the old Cattle Market. It has a special five-a-side football floor. Notably, he organised the first City Marathon in Derry, and then ran in it. In 1985 he moved to South Oxfordshire Council as its Chief Recreation Officer.

Roy Seddon died at his home after a long illness on 6th October 2012.

As we go to press we learn with sadness of the death of Dr Gladys Elizabeth Black at York House, Portrush, on 6th December, 2013. Dr Black was a Founder member of the Coleraine Branch of the LHSOGA and an active member of the Association. She was predeceased by her husband, Rev J S P Black, the minister of Largy and Garnerville Presbyterian Churches, and her son David. She is survived by her son Boyd and her daughter Elizabeth.

Georgina Alexandra (Sandra) Harman née Burns died 22 March 2013

Evelyn Huey Loughridge née Kincaid died 14 December 2013 aged 95.

Coleraine Branch regret the deaths of two of their esteemed founding members, Mrs Evelyn Loughridge and Mrs Gladys Black.

The Association would also like to express their condolences to the families of Henry Ho, Cathy Smith, and Mrs Frances EJ Kennedy (née Smith).

Announcements

Births

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9 April 2013 to Edward and Ella Beard, née King a son, Barney James Wainwright

10 June2013 to Gareth and Julie Ann Patterson,née Black a son, Charles Edward Samuel, a brother for James.

17 August2013 to Julie Fowler and Rob Wyatt, a son, Flynn James Wyatt.

15 September2013, to Penny Coskery and Alastair Johnston, a son, Harry Peter.

4 October 2013, to Christopher and Claire Adair, a daughter, Alexandra Anne Elizabeth.

Marriages

23 November 2013 Sara Jayne McNally to Oliver Daniel Barnes in the Soho Beach House , Miami Beach. Currently honeymooning in Argentina.

4 May 2013, Emma Haslett to Rick Atherton.

Lady President Elect Profile

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I was born in Strabane,Co Tyrone where my primary education began at Strabane Girls' School. In 1954 I transferred to Londonderry High School – ‘A school for young ladies’ where I remained until 1958 prior to joining the fifth form at Strabane Grammar School and leaving in 1961.Londonderry High School was unique and will always hold a very special place in my heart.

Post secondary education I trained as a nurse in London, married Pierre and had three daughters. In 1969 we settled in Belfast where I worked as a nursery nurse prior to attending QUB from where I graduated with a degree in History.

Having reached my three score years and ten I am now enjoying my retirement and my grandchildren. It's always interesting meeting up with former pupils and I am now looking forward with a little trepidation as President Elect to the year ahead.

Phenella Anne Black

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Reports on the Year’s Events

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Book Launch – March 2013.

The launch of the book, A View the Foyle Commanding, which traces the four hundred years of Foyle College was held in the old Foyle College building at Lawrence Hill on 8 March. The venue was most appropriate since it marked the two hundredth anniversary of the fine Georgian building which opened its doors in September 1813.

We were grateful to the Provost of the University of Ulster, Magee Campus for allowing the use of the building which now houses the Department of Music and Performing Arts. The launch was very well attended by several hundred former pupils and friends of the school. The new Headmaster, Patrick Allen, was joined by his two predecessors, Jack Magill and Hugh Gillespie. The ceremony was chaired by Robin Young, Chair of Governors, who introduced the speakers including, the Headmaster, Bishop James Mehaffey, Sean McMahon (Editor), William Lynn (Project Manager), Joy Coskery (Former Pupils’ Association) and Joel Burden (Publisher). Musical entertainment was provided by the school’s music department and catering by the hospitality pupils. Dr Robert Montgomery and Ken Gamble set up a display of items from the archives.

The book which represents a definitive history of the school since its foundation in 1617 is beautifully illustrated in full colour and covers all aspects of school life not just in Foyle but the Londonderry Academical Institution and the girls’ schools – Londonderry High School, Victoria High School, St Lurach’s, Strand House and the Ladies’ Collegiate School. It retails in hard back at £40 and copies can be purchased from the school’s office at Duncreggan.

William Lynn

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THE BOOK LAUNCH Friday 8 March 2013 7.00pm Lawrence Hill

This was indeed an auspicious occasion and an honour to have been present as joint President of the Former Pupils Association, my other half being Dr Robert Montgomery.

I felt a great sense of pride being a part of this very special book launch. It represented the combined history of the amalgamated schools, the boys who had their beginnings in 1617 and the girls to follow in 1860 as one of the first schools for girls’ education.

The writing of this book would not have been possible without the gathering of information in the form of the archives. It is thanks to the teachers, pupils and their families that we were blessed in having such a vast and comprehensive collection of memories of the Kindergarten, boarders, day pupils and all school activities and achievements.

Of course it took expertise and foresight to be able to present all this comprehensive material in an organised fashion, the expertise that I speak of is that of our dedicated archivists, namely the editor Sean McMahon, Robert Montgomery and Ken Gamble. I befriended Sean, Robert and Ken when I visited the school archives room during my president-elect and presidential year.

Their passion for cataloguing all the material thrown at them impressed me and refuelled my own interest in the history of my girls’ school, both past and present.

KEN GAMBLE ROBERT MONTGOMERY KANCHU McALLISTER – BILLY YOUNG -ROBERT SEAN McMAHONMONTGOMERY

Guests attending this function included Michael Skinner from Merchant Taylor’sThreadneedle Street London and staff and pupils from the Merchant Taylor’s school, Wallingford College.

Foyle and Wallingford College performed a joint jazz concert on the evening following the book launch.

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Three Headmasters, past and present graced the occasion, Mr Hugh Gillespie, Mr Jack Magill and the present Headmaster Mr Patrick Allen.

FRONT ROW: JACK MAGILL-HUGH GILLESPIE- PATRICK ALLEN BACK ROW; WILLIAM LYNN and ROBIN YOUNG

I cannot leave without mentioning my dear departed friend Maureen Phillips, a true Old Girl whose life revolved around LHSOGA, the amalgamated school and the all the girls and boys achievements.

No doubt she would never have missed such an occasion as today and her enthusiasm alone would have lit up this whole room like a beacon.

I had the honour of being bestowed with Maureen's extensive memorabilia and will now have the pleasure of handing it over into Robert’s care.

Apparently there is enough unpublished material to launch a second volume. We wish the archivists great energy and enthusiasm in going forward to produce another wonderful masterpiece.

Thank you all for being there and sharing the history of our school.

Dr Kanchu McAllister (née Chada)

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Press Photos from the Book Launch

Current Headmaster Patrick Allen with Past Headmasters Jack Magill and Hugh Gillespie. Also in the photo, William Lynn and Robin Young

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The first AGM of the amalgamated Associations 26th March 2013

Kanchu McAllister’s speech at the handover of the presidential chain to the incoming Lady President Lily Swinson from Coleraine.

It is with great honour and indeed with a great sense of pride that I stand here as the first joint Lady President of the amalgamated associations, an important milestone in the history of the associations.

As a Londonderry High School old girl, it is even more meaningful, memorable and nostalgic to have this special occasion hosted in Duncreggan House, when in 1928, the Tillie family handed over this house to the McKillip sisters as it became Londonderry High School.

Let us hope that this beautiful building will be restored by Magee University as generously and with equal loving care as the old Foyle College on Lawrence Hill.

My personal interest and involvement in the school archives began in 2002. I was a late recruit of the Londonderry High School Old Girls’ Association and found myself thirsty for knowledge about its history.

Soon news of this interest of mine fell on the ears of Mrs Joy Coskery who was deeply involved in the LHS archives at that time. Joy very kindly introduced me to Mrs Maureen Phillips, who was not an official school archivist but had a love and passion for anything to do with the school, past and present.

This passion rubbed off on me and from that day forth, I delved into all things LHS, setting myself small projects over the next ten years with the invaluable help and support from Maureen Phillips, Pearlie Taggart and old girls from other branches. Two of the most interesting projects was to research the Old Girls past presidents by going through all the past Old Girls' magazines and placing their names in chronological order and also following the history of the LHSOGA presidential chain.

For me, the past thirteen months have been an immense pleasure, and I have thoroughly enjoyed carrying out my duties as the joint president with Robert Montgomery- both of us sharing events such as the Old Boys' dinner, the book launch and today's AGM.

During this period I attended the London lunch twice and the Coleraine dinner, but unfortunately had to cancel my planned visit to prizegiving and the Belfast lunch due to my husband's illness.

I did not attend the Scottish and Derry reunions due to my commitment to two family weddings abroad.

It is also an honour to have my name added to the list of presidents who went before me and as a gesture of my passion for the LHOGA, I have personally donated a silver bar in the name of our founder Miss Mary French McIlroy.

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I wish Lily (Swinson) and Billy (Young) an equally enjoyable jointed term of office, my only regret being that I have to part with our coveted presidential chain.

I would like to end by thanking you all for your support and friendship during this remarkable journey, with special mention of my three musketeer archivist friends- Robert, Sean and Ken who at present spend their time cooped up in the smallest of archive rooms.Thankfully, as we understand, this will be rectified when the new school provides a bigger and better archive room that will be funded from the £10,000 donated by the Londonderry High School Old Girls’ Association in 2010. Thanks also to the headmaster Patrick Allen, William Lynn and the FCFPA committee who kept me informed about school events.

I wish the present school every success as they go forward to being 4 centuries old.

The Foyle book portrays Lord John Lawrence residing over the river Foyle - 'indeed a view commanding'. He oversees the building of the new school, the achievements of the pupils and the 400 year celebration of the school.

And last but never least – a huge ‘thank you’ to the Old Girls who I have befriended and admired greatly, especially those who attended LHS in the first half of the 20th Century, namely Lucie Seaward, now 94, Lorna Knox, now 92, the late Maureen Phillips, Betty Hamilton and my dear friend Pearlie Taggart who is here with us tonight.

I wish the amalgamated associations every success in their new venture and that they are fruitful in bringing in new young blood that will add vitality to the existing membership.

ROBERT MONTGOMERY & KANCHU McALLISTER WITH FCFPA COMMITTEE KANCHU & ROBERT WITH INCOMING JOINT PRESIDENTS LILY & BILLY

Robert and I were each presented with an amazing photograph of the Peace Bridge, taken by a local photographer.

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CHAIR OF FCFPA ISABEL McNALLY –KANCHU McALLISTER-ROBERT MONTGOMERY- VICE CHAIR OF FCFPA WILLIAM LYNN

This was of particular delight to me as photography is one of my other passions. I take this opportunity to thank the committee for such a thoughtful and treasured gift as a memento of my presidential year of office.

Dr Kanchan McAllister(née Chada)

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Former Pupils’ Association AGM & Wine & Cheese

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London Branch Report

The London girls met and (for the first time in ages) we had rain! Dr McAllister gave a talk on the relationship between the Lawrence family, their connection with India and with Foyle College. She also stepped down as chair of the London Branch and this post will be filled for the next two years by Mrs Yvonne Smith (née Hamilton).The new fusion menu was well received by the ladies in attendance. The meeting for 2014 was agreed as being held on 26 April 2014 (with the proviso that this date was not also the weekend of the London Marathon) and this has now been confirmed. Despite our not being able to enjoy our usual retreat into the garden area the girls had a pleasant day and look forward to many more.

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CLASS REUNION ’74 – ‘81 (SOMETHING EVERYONE MUST DO)

Saturday 18 May 2013.

When we hung up our uniform for the last time in June 1981 no one could have foreseen the importance of the above date.

The event was organised by the Inner Circle, a group of six, Jennifer McClements, Sheena Johnston, Brian Adair, Keith Hegarty, Jonny Dunn and myself, each of us taking on different roles including, finance, booking the White Horse Hotel, contacting the press, gathering school photographs and giving sound advice. At the end of the process all are fully qualified Heir Hunters. Fellow pupils were found on Google, Facebook, word of mouth, by accosting relatives and by good old fashioned handwritten letters.

It has to be acknowledged that not everyone could or wanted to attend but to those who did it was a once in a lifetime event.

Kathy Gilmore travelled from America and Angela Dallas was contacted only a few days before.

It was great to see Pamela Brown at the reunion. Pamela was very ill but she enjoyed the evening to the full, talking to as many old friends as possible. Unfortunately Pamela lost her brave battle with cancer in September 2013. Pamela is remembered by her class mates with love and fond memories.

The few of us who met unofficially on Friday were the first to realise just what fun was to be had the following day. A lot of screaming, hugging and kissing accompanied each individual reunion and this continued all weekend.

Everyone was invited to visit Duncreggan at 2pm on Saturday knowing that this may be the last chance to do so. Through torrential rain we gathered in what was the Board Room. Many thanks to Bessie for her services to tea making. After a lot more screaming, hugging and kissing we eventually decided to tour school. Each of us remembered our own group radiators from where we watched those who we had a crush on. We all looked at the team and prefect photographs and shared our individual memories. The hall was set for exams and some of us relived our own A Level experiences by sitting at an old wooden desk. The smell in that hall has not changed in thirty years!

Although the classrooms were not open we had stories to tell about each room and how we would have loved to get into the canteen, remembering that when the pie or flies graveyard arrived at the table you had to lick your finger and stick it into the piece you wanted. I had to leave school a little early as I had to check final details with The White Horse Hotel where two ol’ eejits were decorating the tables.(Many thanks to Maco and Sterry)

As 7pm drew closer so the debate on what to wear drew to a close. Balding heads and killer heels were the trends with not one ra-ra skirt to be seen.

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After another round of screaming, hugging and kissing fifty-six former classmates gathered for the first time in over 30 years for a group photograph. It was not difficult to smile but a lot of patience was needed to get us to stop talking and look forward. Irene House, Head Girl, gave a vote of thanks to all and Donald Bigger, Head Boy, asked us to raise a glass to absent friends. Jonny Dunn then gave a quick description of how the evening would unfold but he was rudely interrupted by the two ol’eejits and their party games. Spoons on a long string raised many a hemline! As we enjoyed a hot buffet meal, we watched a powerpoint of old school photographs which brought back so many memories. (Thanks Sheena)

WHO COULD FORGET? Girls dancing to Grease and Abba Boys standing and looking on Fuel filled Whole Load o Rosie accompanied by a moist Bigger Dad dancing to Going Underground Totally dyslexic YMCA The ability to pass food to each other without the use of limbs And what party would be complete without Ernie peacefully asleep?

I cannot say what time the last person got home but the sun had certainly risen. Many thanks to all who helped in any way, especially getting contact details and old school photographs. If it could be improved at all it would be to add the infamous BEAN FLAN as a menu choice.

It was a truly wonderful weekend bringing many old friends back in touch for the first, but not the last time.

So, to all our chatters, drinkers and dancers, thanks for everything and stay in touch with each other.

Cathy Arthur(née Mowbray)

Foyle and LondonderryCollege Class of ‘74 – ‘81

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LHSOGA Belfast Branch Report

Sixteen old girls attended our Afternoon Tea which was held in the Sun Lounge of the Dunadry Hotel on Saturday, 1 June. In addition to the familiar faces from the Belfast and Coleraine branches, we were pleased to welcome five who had not been to the event before. The food, service and setting provided by the hotel were all excellent and the ladies enjoyed the afternoon.

On Saturday, 5 October, thirty six ladies attended the lunch and AGM which was held at the Park Plaza Hotel, Belfast International Airport. We were delighted to have Lily Swinson, this year’s President, as our guest. She gave a very interesting and amusing talk about her life and her presence added greatly to our enjoyment of the event.

Phenella Black, our current Chairperson, is the Lady President-Elect and we look forward to supporting her in her presidential year. Throughout the year our committee meetings were held at her house and she always treated us to a beautiful afternoon tea after business had been conducted. Many thanks Phenella for your charming hospitality.

During the year there have been changes to the committee. Four long serving and very valued members have resigned in order to allow new people to come on to the committee. They are Millicent Welch, Pat Stevens, Rosemary Dinsmore and Elma McDevitt.

Meanwhile, Margaret Harbison and Meriel McVeigh have come on to the committee. If you are not currently on our mailing list, please get in touch with me as you would be very welcomeat our events.

Joan Milliken (Honorary Secretary/Treasurer) [email protected]

Elizabeth Briggs, Joan Milliken and Margaret Giboney. Belfast Branch meeting

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Gertrude Aiken and Elma McDevitt. Belfast Branch meeting

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Coleraine Branch Report

Greetings to all from the Coleraine Branch.

As a Branch we were sorry to learn of the death of Sandra Harman, only daughter of Winsome and Herbert Burns on 22 March, 2013. A number of our members attended Sandra's funeral in Castlerock. We continue to remember Winsome, her husband and the family circle.

We met in May at the home of our Chairperson Lily Swinson for our Annual Buffet Supper. This was well attended by Old Girls including those from Belfast. The food and the craic was wonderful!

As a Branch we thank Lily for hosting this event and thank her for being our President this year - our sincere thanks for all she has done in her year of office for our Association and our Branch.

Our annual Get Together on 17th December was held at the home of Carol Corrigan. As always this was a very relaxing and enjoyable evening.

During the year members attended the Spring Reunion in Londonderry, the London Luncheon, the Belfast Lunch and the Afternoon Tea at Dunadry arranged by the Belfast Branch.As always those members who attended these events enjoyed meeting Old Girls as well as catching up with news from near and far. Again thanks to all our Branches for arranging these events during 2013.

We now look forward to the events of 2014 and wish everyone in our Association a good 2014.

Rosaleen Ramsey (née Mc Clements ) Hon. Secretary / Treasurer

Lily Swinson, our President, about to serve the delicious food

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Report on Annual Dinner held in the City Hotel Friday 11th October 2013.

The annual dinner of the Former Pupils’ Association took place in the City Hotel on 11 October. Billy Young, Joint President of the Association presided. Unfortunately attendance for the second year in a row was disappointing with just over fifty members and guests attending. Representatives from other associations attended, including ColeraineAcademical Institution OBA, Belfast Old Instonians, Methodist College FPA, Old Portora Union. St Columb’s College Union, Royal School Dungannon FPA, Belfast Royal Academy OBA. The guest speakers were John Magowan, former Vice Principal of FLC and retired Principal of Clondermott High School and Lisneal College, Patrick Allen, Headmaster and Bill Sillery, former Headmaster of Belfast Royal Academy.

Other guests included the Head Boy, Patrick Leeson and Head Girl, Alexandra Graham. There were eight former presidents in attendance . The President opened proceedings by welcoming all present and called for a minute’s silence to remember former member who had passed away in the last year. Rev. Dr. Bert Tosh said grace, and an excellent dinner followed. After dinner the company were entertained to songs by Percy French and from The Mikado beautifully performed by Miss R McGlinchy, accompanied by Jim Goodman on the piano. JohnMagowan proposed the toast to ‘The School’. He has been a lifelong friend of the President, attending Clooney PS and Foyle together. He recounted his time at school and their exploits on the sports fields. His teaching career began in 1967 and he told of the momentous changes that came about as LHS and Foyle amalgamated but the school had simply evolved as it had always done since its foundation in 1617. Evolution and change would always occur but need not compromise the traditions and ethos of the school.

The headmaster, Patrick Allen, replied the toast giving a detailed report on the academic and extra curricular highlights of his first year in that post. The details of his speech are recorded elsewhere in this edition. His report was followed by the President who proposed the toast to ‘The Guests’. Having welcomed his guests, he recounted what Foyle had meant to him. It stood for three qualities – Scholarship, Security and Service. He illustrated each of these with various aspects of his time at Foyle, including exploits of John Magowan and his Vice President, Lowry Cunningham. He finished by appealing for a better attendance at next year’s dinner. Bill Sillery, the president’s predecessor as Headmaster of BRA and Headmaster there for twenty years replied on behalf of the guests. He had always held a great affection for Foyle since he first travelled by train as a pupil from Belfast to play sport against Foyle. His speech was light-hearted and witty and rounded off the evening well.

The dinner closed with the singing of the School Song with Stan Huey on the piano. Dr Robert Montgomery, immediate Past President, presented the President with his jewel.

N.B. In an effort to avoid clashes with Ulster rugby and hopefully improve attendance next year the dinner will revert to the last Friday in September. Please note this date 71 in your diary together with the date of the OBA Belfast luncheon in the spring. Both dates are listed in the Dates for Diary section.

William Lynn

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Headmaster’s Speech at the Annual Dinner

Distinguished guests, former pupils of Foyle College, of Londonderry High School and of Foyle & Londonderry College it is a privilege to be addressing you once again this evening and to report to you the highlights of the past school year. I ended last year’s report with the French phrase ‘Plus ca change, plus c’est la meme chose’ and I would like to return, once again, to that theme looking firstly at the changes and achievements of the past year before considering what remains fundamentally the same at Foyle College.

Unfortunately the Department of Education continues to measure and compare schools purely on their performance in public examinations so let’s take a brief look at how this year’s exam classes fared.

At GCSE the pass rate across all subjects was 94% with 40% of the grades achieved being either A* or A. Of particular note were Ruth Allen who achieved ten A*s and Sarah Ferry who achieved nine A*s and an A. Fifteen further pupils achieved at least 9 grades at A or A*. Hannah Millar finished first in Northern Ireland in GCSE Hospitality, a particularly pleasing result for her teacher, Mrs Fiona Feeny, as this was the first class to study this subject at Foyle. We mustn’t overlook the Year 11 pupils who undertook their GCSE Maths in one year achieving a 100% pass rate and with 84% achieving either an A* or A grade.

For Year 13 pupils the AS pass rate was 97% across all subjects with 36% of the grades achieved at Grade A, 27% at Grade B and 20% at Grade C. Worthy of individual mention are Judith Allen, Amy Austin, James Cole, Becky Downey, Bethan Heath, Hilary Leeson, Patrick Leeson, Aoife McSorley and Joanne Struthers who have each achieved four A Grades with Bethan also being placed first in Northern Ireland in Geology. A further nine pupils achieved at least three A Grades.

Year 14 achieved an A-Level pass rate of 99%. 31% of these grades were achieved at A* or A which compares more than favourably with the UK average of 26%. 30% of grades were at Grade B and 24% at Grade C; grades which have allowed 83% of the year group to access places at university. Worthy of individual mention are Mark Monaghan and Lauren McCracken who each achieved three A*s and an A, whilst Niamh Spence achieved four A*s and will be reading Medicine at Robinson College, Cambridge. A further twelve pupils each achieved at least three A-Levels at A or A*; that’s almost 15% of the whole year group leaving Foyle College with three top grades.

However, drawing attention to and congratulating our top achievers is not intended to diminish the achievements of any of the young people who left Foyle this year. Foyle College is, after all, about fostering opportunities for young learners to excel and that is what each of our pupils have done in their own way. For some it will have been a personal triumph to achieve the grades required to gain a university place. Many will have faced up to, and overcome, personal difficulties at some point in their seven years at Foyle. Most will have seized the opportunities that the school has offered them and leave us as enriched and enhanced contributors to society.

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So what of those additional opportunities that are so important in the development of our young people.

The 1st XI Hockey team faced a challenging year as they had lost a large number of experienced U6th players from the previous year’s squad. Encouraged by the much appreciated coaching skills of Katherine Rough from Priorians they ended the season having won four, drawn one and lost nine finishing in the middle of the Derry & Antrim league table; however, importantly for the girls one of the wins was over Limavady Grammar. The girls also unfortunately lost to Victoria College in the first round of the Schools’ Cup in November. What is most encouraging are the number of pupils playing hockey with three senior XIs and A and B teams at U14 and U13. Esther Hume from Year 10 trained all season with the Ulster Talent Development Squad and along with Kelsey Hargan from Year 11 played on the U15 Western Area Squad while Rosie McSorley, Tara Mackey and Katie Scott were selected for the U17 squad.

Unfortunately the 1st XV didn’t have a “wonderfully successful season” in the words of this year’s captain Patrick Leeson, recording nine wins and eight losses. This was due to both inconsistent form and significant injuries to key players, including Captain Kyle Henderson, at vital points of the season. The team still managed to make it through to the third round of the Schools’ Cup losing 24-13 to Down High School – a score-line that doesn’t reflect the hard fought nature of the match. The team then entered the bowl competition making it to the semi-final where they lost to Omagh Academy who went on to win the final. It is encouraging that we were able to field three senior XVs during last year but we continue to struggle to get sufficient numbers out in the juniors to make meaningful squads.

Cricket continues to be numerically strong throughout the school but unfortunately the past season was badly disrupted by the weather. The 1st XI were not as successful as in previous years losing in the second round of the schools cup to Limavady Grammar, although the disappointment was slightly lessened as Limavady were the eventual winners of the competition. The 2nd XI fared slightly better reaching the final of their competition only to also be beaten by Limavady so the boys are definitely out for revenge this year against our near neighbours and long- time rivals.

Foyle’s globetrotting fencers have, as ever, punched above their weight this year in terms of international achievement with EimileMcSorley, Anna Jackson and Lucia McAfferty representing Ireland at the Junior World Cup Epee Tournaments in Kiev and Burgos and Niamh Spence in the Junior World Cup Sabre Tournament also held in Kiev. Laura McElhinney, Rosie McGonagle, Jonathan Burnside and Jamie Price travelled to European Cadet Epée Tournaments in Copenhagen and Krakow. Foyle also had eight fencers on the Northern Ireland team at the UK School Games during September.

Music, as you will appreciate, plays a large part in the life of Foyle College with many talented musicians and singers performing on a variety of occasions throughout the year. In addition to the Carol Service in December and the Spring Concert in March there were two particular highlights which stood out for me both of which took place during February. One was the Jazz Evening which this year took place in the Tower Hotel where our own jazz musicians were joined by those of Wallingford School, a

74 fellow member of the Merchant Taylors’ family of schools. Whilst the musical performances by both schools were of the highest calibre and thoroughly enjoyed by the capacity audience, it was the way in which the pupils of Foyle College proudly showed off their city and talked about its history with our visitors as we toured the walls on the Saturday morning that has stuck with me. Education should provide opportunities for young people to learn about and to understand others and I am sure that the friendships that were formed and reinforced that weekend will, for some, last a lifetime. The other highlight was Stars In Their Eyeswhere, following a rigorous audition process, eight junior and ten senior pupils performed the songs of their favourite artists before a capacity audience of family and friends in Duncreggan. The talent on display that evening from the pupils, if not the staff, was both exceptional and highly entertaining but what I particularly enjoyed was that many of the performers would not normally appear in the limelight and yet when given an opportunity to shine they grasped it with both hands. Combining the talents of our thespians and musicians, plus all those grafting out of the limelight, I am already eagerly anticipating the school production of Little Shop of Horrors which will take place at the beginning of December.

The Sentinus Engineering Research and Design Project is a scheme which was set up to encourage pupils to apply for engineering degrees. A team of Year 13 pupils, Aoife McSorley, Laura McElhinney, Ethan Smith and Christopher Love, worked to solve a real world engineering problem set for them by Mr Martin Devenney of E&I Engineering. This involved researching possible solutions and evaluating their benefits before proposing a final design to best answer the brief. The team had the opportunity to spend three days in the engineering workshop at University of Ulster Jordanstown before submitting a final report and making a PowerPoint presentation of their proposal to a panel of qualified engineers. The work was of such a calibre that the team were awarded Gold Crest Awards.

Following rigorous auditions thirteen pupils from Year 10 were chosen to represent the school in Junior Magistrates. The team succeeded in winning the Northern Ireland competition in March and progressed to the national final which took place in Nottingham in June against sixteen schools from across the United Kingdom. This competition involved members of the team taking on the full range of roles to be found in a courtroom, preparing both defence and prosecution cases, to try against their opposing schools. We have high hopes that these young people will progress to represent the school in Bar Mock trials in the Senior School and perhaps will even consider a career at the Bar as a result of their experiences.

I could talk on and on about the achievements of this year; about the French Drama Club, La ComedieFoylaise and the innovative work of the Modern Languages department which is up for an award from the British Council, about Richard Magee winning the Visual Arts competition sponsored by the City Hotel where we are this evening, about the school’s participation in the Shakespeare in Schools Festival or the five young people whose short stories were published in Soundtrack to our Lives, about athletics, badminton tennis and girls’ rugby, about the 140 young people who took part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award during the course of the year or those who parade with the Combined Cadet Force each week, about the cross community work that took place with Reach Across or the fund raising and charity work of the

75 whole school. I could talk on and on, but I won’t. Suffice to say I hope you will agree that it has been another extremely full and productive year at Foyle College.

The variety of experience that we are able to offer obviously relies on a single common factor – the members of staff who are prepared to give so generously of their time and expertise after school, at weekends and in many cases during their holidays to support and develop the pupils of Foyle. Once again we have seen significant changes in staffing during the past year. Probably most noteworthy has been the retirement of Mr William Lynn after thirty-eight and a-half years loyal service and who will be sadly missed, as much for his acerbic observations, as for his huge contribution to school life. William has been replaced by Miss Nichole Sloane, a former pupil of the school, who has joined us from Oakgrove. Mr Richard McKeegan and Mr Jim McBride have both taken career breaks and their places have been taken for the coming year by Miss Cara McAleer and Mr Steven Young in the Chemistry and History Departments respectively. Permanent appointments to the teaching staff for the new school year have been Miss Kathryn Sayers to Maths, Mrs Michaela Leonard to ICT, Mr Barry Duffy to English, Mrs Claire Robinson to History and Mr Alistair Ferguson to Boys PE.

People outside a school don’t always appreciate that its strength relies not only on its teaching staff but just as importantly on those who work in support roles and once again we have lost a significant number of highly experienced ancillary staff. Mrs Linda McLean retired as Assistant Bursar after twelve years, Mrs Marion McGeehan retired after sixteen years in a variety of roles latterly providing invaluable support to pupils with Special Educational Needs, Mrs Gladys Peoples and Mrs Linda Hughes retired from the Junior School canteen after eighteen and twenty-three years respectively and Mrs Esther Astbury retired after twenty-nine years maintaining the exemplary standards of cleanliness in Springtown. Such dedication to the school and its pupils will be sorely missed and will be hard to replace

It is the values and ethos underlying schools such as Foyle College that make them what they are, that make parents want to send their children to them, that make pupils want to attend them and that make staff want to teach in them. Last year we asked pupils and staff to put forward what they felt to be the values of Foyle College.

Working from these suggestions we have identified that it is the aim of the staff, pupils, parents and governors of Foyle College to work together to create a secure, caring, happy and healthy environment. Within this environment pupils can grow academically, athletically and artistically in order to fulfil their potential both as members of the school community and as contributors to society. Such growth will be nurtured through the promotion of the school’s core values of: respect by all members of the school community for themselves, for others, for our community and for the environment through an appreciation of the need for moral values and tolerance of others; determination by all members of the school community to strive for the achievement of personal and collective goals through hard work, courage and skill and a recognition that determination is what transforms the promise into reality; responsibility by all members of the school community in accepting accountability for one’s self and the well-being of others;

76 integrity by all members of the school community in demonstrating openness, honesty, inclusiveness and high standards of behaviour and attainment in all areas of school life; commitment by all members of the school community to its caring ethos and academic and extra-curricular traditions.

Now let’s cast our minds back to the schools which came together in 1976 and to their mottos which represented what they stood for. Surely gentlemen the ethos of Ne umquamcesseris lives on today in the values of determination and commitment for what else is required in never yielding. My apologies to the ladies of Londonderry High School for not being able to make a stab at the Greek version of their motto but according to A View The Foyle Commanding it meant “[behaving] as if ever in the presence of God” which I believe to have been shortened to ‘In Thy Makers Eye’. Surely this ethos still exists in the values of respect, of taking responsibility for one’s actions and of displaying integrity or as I explain it to the pupils knowing and doing what is right.

Once again this has been a year of significant change and achievement on the banks of the Foyle and as a school we will continue to change, to develop and to evolve to meet the needs of the young people of the City of Londonderry and its surrounding areas but I hope that you will be reassured that still at our core lie the identity and the values and the ethos of the schools which you hold so dear and which are the reason why you are gathered here this evening. As I said at the beginning ‘Plus ca change, plus c’est la meme chose.’

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Annual Dinner 2013

Standing from left: David Smyth (President Methody College Belfast FPA), Dixon Rose (President Belfast Old Instonians Association), David Haslett (President Belfast Royal Academy OBA), James Pattison (President Old Portora Union), Issac Thompson (President Coleraine Old Boys’ Association), David Brown (President Royal School Dungannon FPA), & Dermot Carlin (St Columb’s College Union. Seated from left: Jim Sammon (Vice President St Columb’s College Union), John Magowan (Guest Speaker), Billy Young (President FCFPA), Patrick Allen (Headmaster), & WM Sillery (Guest Speaker)

Past Presidents seated from left: Rev B Tosh, Billy Young, John Magowan, & Stanley Huey Standing from left: Jack McFarland, John Arthur, Robert Montgomery, &Prof. Roy McClelland

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A transcript of Kanchu McAllister (née Chada)’s speech given at the FCFPA Dinner on 12th October 2012 An account of the pioneering and scholastic achievements of Sir Henry Lawrence during the days of the Raj and his lifetime in India.

THE LAWRENCES OF INDIA

Ladies and gentlemen Good Evening & Namaste

I bring you greetings from both my worlds.

It is with great honour that I stand before you as the first Lady President of the amalgamated associations.

Some of you know me as Kanchu, but my given name is Kanchan, a Hindu name meaning golden.

My family come from the Indian province of Punjab- known as the land of the five rivers; derived from two Persian words-‘Punj’ meaning 5 and ‘aab’ meaning water.

My mother, the daughter of a Major in the Indian Army, was born in Lahore which was a part of Punjab before the partition of India in 1947.

THIS is my connection to the school and the Lawrences of India.

India - Punjab -Lahore - where the Lord John Lawrence Statue once stood, and today stands in front of the Junior school at Springtown.

In Lahore, before the arrival of Lord John’s statue, there were two memorial halls, the Lawrence Hall to commemorate Lord John’s association with Punjab and the Montgomery Hall in honour of Sir Robert Montgomery who was also an Old Foyle boy and served with both brothers in Lahore as a British Colonial Administrator.

Sir Robert succeeded Lord John as LtGeneral of Punjab.

He was the grandfather of Field Marshall Viscount Montgomery of Alamein.

The Lawrences sprang from a mixed race of Scots and Irish in Ulster. Their father Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Lawrence from Coleraine and mother Catherine Knox from Strabane had twelve children. There were five living sons, Alexander 1764 - 1835, George 1804-1884, Henry 1806-1857, John 1811-1879, and Richard.

All attained high positions in the Indian Civil and Military services but the two most prominent and famous were Brigadier General Sir Henry Montgomery Lawrence KCB-Knight Commander of Bath which was bestowed on him by Queen Victoria and his younger brother Lord John Laird Lawrence GCB, GCSI, PC- 1st Baron, Lord Lawrence of Punjab, Lieutenant Governor of the Punjab and both Governor General & Viceroy of India.

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He received the Grand Commander of the order of the Star of India.

The brothers were sent to the Grammar school of Londonderry, now Foyle College, where their uncle, the Rev. James Knox was principal.

Through their mother’s connections the brothers went to the East India Company Military College their gateway to India.

Sir Henry and Lord John served together in the Punjab but eventually disputed about its future.

Lord John favouring immediate annexation to the Empire, while Sir Henry desiring maintenance of a semi-independent position. Sir Henry 1806-1857 was killed by shell shrapnel, at the seize of Lucknow, aged 51.

It was said at the time that the brother who represented chivalry, generosity and sympathy was gone and the stronger character of Lord John remained to secure British rule.

In recognition of Sir Henry’s achievements the Ulster History Circle erected a memorial plaque at The Foyle Arts Building on Lawrence Hill in 2010.

This was in honour of Sir Henry setting up a network of schools in India to care for orphans and children of British soldiers.

There were four boarding schools built, initially called Lawrence Military Asylums. These institutions exist today as the prestigious Royal Military School Sanawar, near Simla, the largest co-educational boarding school in the world,Mount Abu, in Rajasthan which closed after Independence in 1947, Lawrence Memorial Royal Military School Lovedale, in southern India, and lastly the Lawrence College GhoraGali in Pakistan. This is an elite public boarding school and their school emblem is based on the Lawrence family coat of arms.

The last two schools were built after his death by committees in England, Londonderry and South India, as a tribute to Sir Henry and Lady Lawrence.

Today, the motto for all the schools still stands as ‘Never Give In’. They were the dying words of Sir Henry at Lucknow.

Lord John 1811-1879 Foyle 1815-1819

Went to India with his brother Henry at the age of eighteen and gave forty years of service to India.

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He mastered both Hindustani and Persian. He also studied the campaigns of Hannibal and was feared but respected and likened to Oliver Cromwell.

He was responsible for numerous reforms, established a common currency, a postal system and developed Punjabi infrastructure, earning him the name of ‘Saviour of the Punjab.’

He prevented the Indian Mutiny of 1857 spreading to Punjab and for this was made a Baron and named Lord Lawrence of Punjab.

Rising rapidly through the ranks he become Viceroy of India from 1864-69 and was in effect, ruler of India.

His motto was ‘Be Ready.’

Lord John is buried in the nave of Westminster Abbey beside Clyde and Livingstone.

The Wandering Statue of Lord John

This 10ft bronze sculpture was erected by his fellow British & Indian subjects in 1882

It has moved at least a half a dozen times and travelled almost 10,000miles.

Initially there were 3 statues, 2 in London and 1 in Calcutta.

In 1887, one of the London statues was sent to Lahore and stood in the Lawrence Memorial Gardens which was based on Kew Gardens.

After partition, the statue was dumped and damaged with loss of the right hand and the sword in the left hand.

In 1963, after 76 years, the statue came to Foyle College, all due to a campaign by the Foyle College Old Boys’ Association.

The statue’s right hand and sword were replaced by a foundry in London on its way back to Derry.

The most recent restoration in 2010 was to replace the quill and part of the sword. This happened due to the generosity of the Former Pupils’ Association.

The Pen and the Sword -the quotation ‘the pen is mightier than the sword’ comes to mind, but it is also said that it represented Lord John’s versatility as an administrator and a soldier.

In 1967 Lord John moved to his present position at Springtown and no doubt he will be on the move once more when the new school is built.

The legacy of these two great philanthropists is etched in the school’s history and is remembered by a school house named Lawrence, the Lord John Lawrence statue,

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And finally, as the Foyle book portrays, Lord John resides over the Foyle-‘indeed a view commanding’ as he oversees the building of the new school, the achievements of the pupils and the 400 year celebration of the school.

SIR GEORGE ST.PATRICK LAWRENCE SIR HENRY LAWRENCE LORD JOHN LAWRENCE 1804-1884 1806-1857 1811-1879

HEADMASTER REV. JAMES KNOX SIR ROBERT MONTGOMERY 1809-1887

DrKanchu McAllister née Chada Past Joint Lady President FCFPA 2012-2013

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Scottish Reunion – 16 November 2013

Another enjoyable evening for LHS and FLC former pupils at the Bruntsfield Hotel in Edinburgh. It was great to catch up on news and meet old friends. We were sorry for members who were unable to attend due to a family get together, a wedding and a new baby. It was a lovely weekend so many were able to sightsee, meet relatives and shop. We would encourage others to come next year to Edinburgh and for those who can plan a long weekend.

Back row: Patricia Burke Barbara Fletcher Pauline Mackay Mary McKerrow Joanne Love Mary Thompson Judith Cummings

Front row: Elma McDevitt Molly Kennedy Harriet Love

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Your Contributions

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EAST weds EAST and the Orient by Dr Kanchan McAllister (née Chada)

MADHVI’S INDIAN WEDDING JAISH’S INDIAN-CHINESE WEDDING

In last year's magazine I mentioned my family history and how east met west, now I reflect on two magical family occasions when east wed east and Orient.

My brother, JeetyChada, an old Foyle boy will be known to some of you. Jeety, his wife Sushma and familyimmigrated to Canada at the end of the 1980s. His son Jaish attended FoyleCollege, his eldest daughter Sonya attended Foyle and LondonderryCollege and his youngest daughter Madhvi attended the Model school before moving to Toronto. My father, Mr JankiDassChada, aged ninety-four years, blessed his grandchildren’s weddings with his presence, as seen in the above family photographs.

Both weddings were awesomely vibrant and colourful, with exceptionally gorgeous brides. Each bride with her own fascinating integral hand-painted Henna designs (crafted with organic Henna dye) on both arms, hands, legs and feet. This bedecking of the bride is an auspicious part of the bridal and family blessing.

The first magical occasion was Madhvi's marriage in November 2012, a very traditional Hindu wedding bar the bridegroom arriving on a horse in the snow! Of course, being biased I can truly say that I never saw a more striking bride. Madhvi's costume, jewellery and ceremony were breathtakingly beautiful, a princess in the making with a fairy tale ending capturing the heart of her handsome Indian prince Mayukh.

The day began with the usual hectic bridal preparations:-hair, beauty, dressing and photographs. This was followed by the meeting of both families and welcoming each other with flower garlands. The elaborate marriage ceremony involved taking vows through specific steps around the holy fire which is central to the Hindu religious ceremony.

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MADHVI

HENNA DESIGNS ON HANDS & FEET

POURING OIL INTO THE HOLY FIRE MAYUKH & MADHVI

The second magical event in April 2013was Jaish's wedding, which followed the same traditions as above.This was a unique affair with the joining of Indian and

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Chinese cultures. An Indian prince wed his Oriental beauty Tammi and sealed their future with a mixture of a traditional Hindu wedding and a traditional Chinese Tea Ceremony. Again, both Tammi and Jaish looked amazing in their fabulous outfits, a different one for each ceremony. They brought their own personal touch to their special day by posing Bollywood style in the park and on their coveted 'Fat Boy' Harley Davidson motorbike.

JAISH & TAMMI HARLEY-DAVISON FATBOY

STEPPING FORWARD AND MAKING VOWS AROUND THE HOLY FIRE

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JAISH& TAMMI SERVING DURING THE CHINESE TEA CEREMONY

BOLLYWOOD IN THE PARK-JAISH & TAMMI WITH BRIDESMAIDS & BEST MEN

A Royal Encounter

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This tale began in July 1945 after CD Craig (Desmond) and I had completed one- year training and were waiting to join our respective ships. The war with Germany had ended but the conflict against Japan was expected to go on for years, so I undertook a gunnery course which qualified me, aged sixteen, to take charge of the armament of a “Defensively-armed merchant ship”.

Fortunately, Japan surrendered in August, so my martial skills were not put to the test!

On arriving home, Des and I were contacted by our former CO of the Londonderry Sea Cadets Corps to perform a duty in connection with the forthcoming royal visit to the city. Our task was to hoist the Royal Standard over the Guildhall as soon as we saw the Standard on the warship, which had carried the Royal Party from Lisahally, being lowered.

On the big day, Des and I presented ourselves at the Guildhall and were told that to reach the flagpole, we would have to climb a ladder which went from the men’s toilet at the top of the main staircase to the roof. This having been achieved, we hoisted the flag at the appropriate moment and from our vantage point watched the Royal Party accompanied by the Mayor, Sir Basil McFarland, and the city dignitaries proceed to the Guildhall along Whittaker Street.

Our intention had been to exit the Guildhall by the back stairs before the VIPs had entered the building but unfortunately, we had tarried too long on the roof and when we reached the Gent’s, the King, the Queen, the Princesses, Elizabeth and Margaret, the Mayor and most of the important personages in the land were processing up the main staircase: our escape route was blocked. As I said, most of the important personages were along with the Royal Party but not all, for along with two lowly, about to go to sea apprentices, was the then Prime Minister of Northern Ireland, Sir Basil Brooke and several bemedalled and red-tabbed military gentlemen who had obviously from their rosy complexions and high spirits, overstayed their visit to the Mayor’s Parlour. The plus side of it was that the royalty passed within a few feet of us and we had a never forgotten memory of a big day in the Maiden City.

By strange coincidence, the next time Des and I were home at the same time was in February 1952, when we heard the accession of the Queen being proclaimed from the steps of the Guildhall. On this occasion, after the ceremony, we made a quick getaway to the old Northern Counties Hotel to toast the health of our newly proclaimed Monarch.

Ian Piggott

Desmond Craig (CD) and Ian Piggott entered Foyle from the Model in September 1940 and left in July 1944 to do pre-sea training in Glasgow. Sadly, Desmond died four years ago.

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From the Archive

Hidden Treasures

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The best place to hide a book, as the slightly worn cliché has it, is in a library. This piece of received wisdom was splendidly exemplified when the retrieval team began assembling and classifying the store of books in the Foyle College archive. There were hidden treasures there indeed both in quantity and quality. There are, for example, nearly seventy volumes essentially Foyle books written by old boys or about old boys or by members of staff. Their subject matter is predictable, reflecting contemporary concerns: collections of sermons, church history, eschatological studies, topography, reflections on the state of Ireland. One headmaster, George Vaughan Sampson anticipated the Ordnance Survey by publishing in 1802 Statistical Survey of the County of Londonderry and Maurice Hime, the first lay headmaster, is represented by sixteen volumes including Wild Oats: a sermon in rhyme and The Unlucky Golfer.

Among better known representative volumes by former pupils are the complete works of George Farquhar, Chronicles and Poems of Percy French and The Book of Inishowen by HP Swan. Lives of the several Lawrence brothers who played such a part in the history of India abound, including that of Henry who died at the siege of Lucknow during the Indian Mutiny, uttering the school motto, and John the source of Derry’s moving statue. The archival library has, of course, many books that are not Foyliana. These have been culled from the school libraries of Foyle, Londonderry High School and its earlier avatars. And it is here that are to be found among hundreds of other items some would cause the most hard-bitten bibliophile to over-salivate.

The oldest is a first and probably the only edition of the Enchiridion (‘Handbook’) of the Stoic philosopher Epictetus (AD50–120) done ‘in a poetical paraphrase’ in 1692 by the Free School headmaster, Ellis Walker, who left in a bit of a hurry when the Siege began. Among many other pieces of wisdom it warns:

You make yourself contemptible and mean A member of the Rabble, if obscene In conversation…

Next comes a large volume with 502 pages of text (15in x 9in) and 91 pages of appendixes set in 8-point print. It had the grand title: The History of the Life and Reign of William-Henry, Prince of Nassau and Orange, Stadtholder of the United Provinces, King of England, Scotland, France etc. and was written by Walter Harris. Published in Dublin in 1749 and contains excellent contemporary maps of places where battles were fought including a unique double-page plan of Derry during the Siege.

Coyly hidden among the more sober monuments to Victorian rectitude are two volumes of rare Ben Jonson’s plays in which Volpone, his most famous drama, is titled ‘The Fox’, printed in Dublin in 1739 and a collection from the original Spectator, the ninth and final volume, written by Addison and Steele and printed in Dublin only eleven years after Steele’s death in 1724. Addison had died in 1719 but it was his etching that decorated the frontispiece and the book was published appropriately at the Sign of Addison’s head in Dame Street.

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The biggest prize - and surprise – is one of many Bibles in the store but unusual in its compact chunkiness. Obviously intended as a saddle-book it is a closely printed version of the King James in elegant Irish with a stunningly beautiful font known as Sean-Cló (old-font) commissioned by William Bedell (1571–1642), Bishop of Kilmore and Ardagh, who when Provost of Trinity insisted that divinity students study Irish the better to minister to their flocks. The archive edition is dated 1830 and was the property of the Rev Samuel Montgomery, the grandfather of Field- Marshal Sir Bernard Montgomery of Alamein. The title page reads BíoblaNaomtha (‘Holy Bible’) and begins ‘Sanntosach do cruthaudhDianeamh as talamh’ (‘In the beginning God created heaven and earth.’) and ends with the Book of Revelation – TaisbeunadhÍosaCríost – (‘The revelation of Christ Jesus’).

Sean McMahon

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The ATHENE Magazine

Following the death of Maureen Phillips in 2012 (see Dr Kanchan McAllister’s tribute in the 2013 FC FPA magazine), the school archives received a remarkable collection of artefacts, which mostly related to the LHS and its earlier schools. Among many valued items is a single copy of the Athene magazine of July 1882. Described as publication Number 2 and comprising pp18-32, it was published quarterly by the teachers and girls of the Londonderry Ladies Collegiate School (LLCS). It was printed at the Londonderry Standard Steam Printing Establishment and priced at sixpence.

Included in the contents are articles on Shakespeare’s Heroines: Rosalind, Milton’s Last Poem, the Spectator, Mrs Browning, Life at Girton College and the Frobel Centenary in Germany. The LLCS girls were encouraged to write essays on ‘Home’ and ‘A Book I Have Read’ for which prizes of various plants and flowers were on offer for the best submissions.

This magazine had been in the possession of the Gillespie family (Elinor, Marjorie and Kathleen) and was then cherished by Mary Kennedy who died in Coleraine aged 97 on 16 March 2003.

We believe that, in publishing the Athene, the LLCS was probably very advanced in its educational attitudes for the time, and it may even be the earliest girl’s school magazine to have been published in Ireland. FCD claims that the Birch (first issued on 16November 1870) was the earliest boy’s school magazine published in Ireland. We have no copies of any Birch magazines, and any further information on both the Athene and Birch magazines would be greatly welcomed by the school.

Robert Montgomery

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Dates For the Diary

Event Venue Date

Former Pupils’ Association Spring Luncheon and Belfray Inn 29 March 2014 Reunion

Belfast Lunch (FCOBA) Malone Golf 12 April 2014 12:30 Club for 1pm

Summer Barbeque and Jazz Evening Duncreggan 20 June 2014

Annual Dinner City Hotel 26 September 2014

Former Pupils’ Scottish Reunion Bruntsfield 15 November 2014 Hotel Edinburgh

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Foyle College Former Pupils’ Association Annual Spring Lunch & Reunion at the Belfray Country Inn Saturday, 29th March 2014 12.30 for 1.00 pm The cost of the lunch will be £20.00 per person (cheque payable to FCFPA) and please bring a friend. Please return your booking form (below) with your remittance and indicating your choice of menu by 8th March 2014 t0: Mrs Barbara Fowler, 1 Salisbury Crescent, Londonderry BT47 5SX Telephone 02871346215 or 07743449566

...... Annual Spring Lunch

Name (Please print) ...... E mail address......

I will/will not be present at Spring Lunch at The Belfray Country Inn. Please tick your menu choice Starters Main Courses Deep Fried Breaded Mushrooms & Garlic Roast Beef with House Jus Melon Fruit Cocktail Chicken Haystacker with Pepper Sauce Caesar Salad Fillet of Salmon with Dill Sauce Homemade Vegetable Broth Vegetarian Option

Served with seasonal vegetables, creamed and roast potatoes ****************** Choice of homemade desserts – Tea/Coffee with Belfray Mints ****************** As informed last year, invitations to the Spring Luncheon will no longer be posted out but will be emailed where we hold an email address. If your email address has changed please let us know. We would be grateful if you would pass this invitation on to other Former Pupils.

FORMER PUPILS’ MAGAZINE ONLINE OR PRINTED COPY

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I hope that you have enjoyed reading the latest edition of the Former Pupils’ Magazine. This edition is currently available on the school’s website – simply click on the Former Pupils icon on the web page. It is now available principally on line and copies will only be provided and posted to those who return the mandate below. The increasing cost of publishing and postage has made this course of action essential. By filling in and returning the standing order mandate for £4 to be paid annually, a copy will be posted to you in future years and the editors will know how many copies to order from the publishers.

If you want to secure copies in future, the mandate form below must be returned to:-

The Bursar FoyleCollege Duncreggan Road Londonderry BT48 0AW.

------Standing Order Mandate To: The Manager (full Your name & address of your Name: bank – in block capitals) Address: Name: Address:

Postcode: Postcode:

Please Pay From My Account - Name

Account Number Sort Code:

£4 - Annually Commencing On / /

To CreditFoyle & LondonderryCollege Former Pupils Association Ulster Bank Limited – Culmore Road Sort Code: 98-09-80Account Number : 77863014

Signed: Date: / /

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